General & Preventive Dentistry, The Building Block of Healthy Teeth
Preventing dental problems is so much easier (and cheaper) than treating them. That’s the role of general and preventative dentistry. Preventive dental services like oral exams and routine cleanings can help you avoid dental problems that can ruin your smile. Through preventive dental care, your Littleton, Colorado dentist from High Forest Dental can keep your gums and teeth in optimal health.
Preventive Dental Services
Dr. Allison Brown offers the following preventive dental services to patients in our care:
- Bi-annual oral exams
- Comprehensive dental cleanings
- Digital X-rays
- Fluoride treatments in preventative content
During an oral exam, Dr. Brown will thoroughly inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth to uncover signs of dental problems early. Treating problems in earlier stages can save you the time and expense of costly treatments later on. It also protects your teeth and gums from extensive damage to preserve your smile. X-raying your teeth enables your dentist to check for hidden problems under the gum line and between teeth, such as cavities and bone loss due to periodontal disease.
For dental cleaning, we will remove all plaque and tartar from your teeth to prevent decay and gum disease. We’ll also remove surface stains that tarnish your smile and polish your pearly whites to make them shine. If you desire, we’ll add a fluoride treatment to your preventive dentistry routine to protect your teeth from cavities and aid with tooth sensitivity.
Benefits of General & Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dental care contributes to a strong, healthy, attractive smile. Through preventive dentistry, you can:
- Keep your breath fresh and clean
- Avoid major dental issues that can weaken or destroy your oral health
- Detect dental problems early when they’re easier to treat
- Prevent tooth loss
- Keep your smile looking beautiful and bright
- Save the expense of costly restorative dental treatments
Routine visits to your Littleton, Colorado dentist play a key role in keeping your smile beautiful and bright year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions about General & Preventative Dentistry
What is the difference between general and preventative dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is a key component of general dental care. It involves dental cleanings, check-ups, sealants, fluoride, and oral cancer screenings. General dentistry is more comprehensive and includes preventing, diagnosing, and treating problems. Besides preventive care, general dentistry encompasses procedures such as X-rays, fillings, periodontal care, and extractions.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Oral cancer is a life-threatening condition, but early detection can make a significant difference. Our office provides routine oral cancer screenings to catch mouth cancer when it’s easy and less costly to treat. Oral cancer screenings are quick and affordable, but can potentially save a life.
What are the common oral health problems?
The most common oral health problems we encounter in our Littleton office include:
- Cavities and damaged teeth
- Bad breath
- Tooth loss
- Gum disease
- Sensitive teeth
These issues can cause pain and other oral health issues. If you experience any of these issues, schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible.
How often should I visit my general dentist for preventative care?
We recommend visiting a dentist every six months for regular check-ups. However, this is the minimum. Some patients need more visits, especially those vulnerable to periodontal disease and tooth decay. We’ll suggest a timeline tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Modern digital X-rays produce high-quality images while utilizing extremely low levels of radiation. The level of exposure is even lower than many everyday sources. Still, we use protective wear such as a lead bib to avoid unnecessary exposure.
Does High Forest Dental offer an in-house membership plan?
Yes! Our office offers an in-house membership plan for patients without insurance in Littleton, Colorado. A dental savings plan helps you enjoy high-quality care with a one-time, affordable fee. This subscription-based plan makes your dental care affordable without the hassle of traditional insurance.
Its unique benefits include.
- No tedious paperwork
- No exclusions
- No yearly maximums
- No claim denial or need for pre-authorizations
- 15% discount on all treatments
- Predictable costs
Are you interested in joining our membership plan? Call our team now for details. Remember, you enjoy benefits immediately when you become a member.
What is the cost of general dentistry in Littleton, CO?
Costs vary by treatment. Preventive care, including exams and cleanings, usually has a lower cost. Fillings, crowns, and extractions may be more expensive. Our office will provide a cost breakdown during your consultation. We’ll also discuss our various payment options.
Are dental extractions painful?
No! We use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area during the procedure. You may feel slight pressure, but not pain. If you are anxious about the procedure, explore our sedation dentistry options.
After the extraction, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, and soreness. Don’t worry! This is a normal part of the healing process. We’ll provide guidelines on pain management, diet, oral hygiene, and activity levels to ensure a seamless recovery. Many patients recover within 72 hours, although the extraction site takes longer to heal completely.
How can I maintain good oral health between dental visits?
Preventive care at home is simple yet critical to maintaining a healthy smile. Brush and floss your teeth diligently with the right techniques. Drink plenty of water and limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods. Avoid tobacco products and using your teeth as tools.
Is it time to schedule an appointment with your local general dentist?
General dentistry is the foundation of every healthy, confident smile. Are you looking for a trusted general dentist in the Littleton area? Call (303) 951-3717 and book an appointment with High Forest Dental. Dr. Allison Brown and her team combine personalized care with advanced technology to deliver high-quality dental care.
Preventive Dental Care at High Forest Dental
To schedule preventive dental services at High Forest Dental in Littleton, CO, contact Dr. Allison Brown at (303) 951-3717. We're here to meet all your dental care needs.
General Dentistry
Fact or myth? Expensive toothpastes are always better than cheaper ones. Myth. Different toothpastes are better for different teeth in situations. Sometimes moderately priced toothpaste can be more effective. Ask the dentist about what might be best for your teeth. And always look for the ADA seal of approval. Fact or myth? If a tooth is white, it must be healthy. Myth. Under the surface there may be cavities, problems with the root or other abnormalities. Fact or Myth? Teeth whitening is harmful because it damages enamel. Myth. There are many modern teeth whitening processes that have minimal harmful effects. Teeth whitening isn’t for every mouth or person though. Consult the dentist before you proceed with whitening treatments. Fact or myth? Dentists should be feared. Myth. With today’s advancements in technology and safety practices there is nothing to worry about. Procedures are as quick and painless as ever. Fact or myth? You should visit your dentists at least twice a year. FACT.
