PREVENTATIVE DENTAL CARE

Preventative Dental Care in New Braunfels

Good dental health begins with a good oral hygiene routine and a balanced diet. It also includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays at your dental office. Your dentist and dental hygienist will work together help to promote, restore, and maintain your oral health.

Preventative Care can help you avoid serious and expensive dental problems. It is the first step on your journey to a healthy, bright, and beautiful smile.

Exams & Cleanings

Dental Exam

A more comprehensive dental exam will be performed by Dr. Peck at your initial dental visit to Smile New Braunfels.  During regular check-up exams after your first visit, we will perform the following:

  • Perform & Examine diagnostic X-rays (radiographs): This is essential for the detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  X-rays also help us determine tooth and root positions.

  • Oral cancer screening: We will examine the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

  • Gum disease evaluation: We will check your gums and the bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.

  • Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.

  • Examination of existing restorations: We will check all of your current fillings, crowns, bridges, etc.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists.  Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:

  • Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

  • Teeth polishing: Removes stains that you may not be able to remove during regular tooth brushing.

After your cleaning, your teeth will feel clean and shiny. For patients that have developed gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) or a more serious case of gum disease, a deep cleaning may be needed to prevent tooth loss and stop further damage. If you are looking for an even whiter smile, we can discuss Professional Teeth Whitening.