Preventive, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

Best Preventive Dental Care in Hackettstown

The most important thing you can do to keep your smile healthy is preventive care. Our goal is to keep you from needing extensive treatment, and to preserve the function and health of your whole mouth, as well as your smile.

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Preventive, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

Best Preventive Dental Care in Hackettstown

The most important thing you can do to keep your smile healthy is preventive care. Our goal is to keep you from needing extensive treatment, and to preserve the function and health of your whole mouth, as well as your smile.

Preventative dental care is one of the most important aspects of maintaining good oral health

At our office, we know that each patient’s situation is unique; therefore, we customize a plan that is designed to meet your individual needs. Of course, educating our patients is always a part of that plan. We want you to know exactly how to care for your smile for years to come.

A strong regimen of cleaning is your first line of defense. Regular brushing and flossing is imperative, but it may not be enough. Plaque, the sticky, bacteria-filled film that constantly forms on the teeth and below the gum line, can harden and become tartar. Plaque and tartar cause periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to a host of problems, including tooth loss. Periodontal disease has also recently been linked to heart disease and stroke. To prevent periodontal disease, regular, professional cleanings are essential. At our office, we can remove the plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. With regular maintenance, you will be on your way to a cleaner, healthier smile!

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Why routine dental care and hygiene is so important

There are a number of different reasons why preventative dental care is so important. One of the most important reasons is that it can help to prevent cavities from developing. Cavities are one of the most common oral health problems, and they can be very painful. Additionally, if left untreated, cavities can lead to more serious problems like infections.Another reason why preventative dental care is so important is that it can help to prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss. Additionally, gum disease has been linked to a number of different health problems, including heart disease and stroke.Finally, preventative dental care is important because it can help to prevent bad breath. Bad breath is not only embarrassing, but it can also be a sign of other oral health problems.

Good oral hygiene at home

Good oral hygiene at home is just as important as twice annual dental visits. There are several ways you can maintain good oral health in between your dental visits:

01

Brushing your teeth

First, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste that contains fluoride.

02

Flossing your teeth

In addition to brushing, you should also floss your teeth every day. Flossing helps to remove plaque and tartar from in between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach.

03

Types of food to avoid

Finally, you should avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar. Sugar can lead to cavities, so it is best to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. However, if you just can’t resist that sugary treat, be sure to brush after, or at least rinse your mouth with water after.

What you can expect during your routine dental visit

Here is what you can expect at your routine dental care appointment here at Vander Vliet Advanced Dental Care:

01

Dental X-ray

First, we will likely take X-rays to check for any problems that may be developing beneath the surface of your teeth. It is important to get dental x-rays once a year because they can help us to detect problems early on, when they are often much easier to treat.

02

Tooth Cleaning

Next, your hygienist will clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar that has built up. This involves using special instruments to scrape away the plaque and tartar from your teeth. It is important to have your teeth cleaned regularly because plaque and tartar can lead to cavities and gum disease.

03

Oral Cancer Screening

Once a year your hygienist will perform an Oral Cancer screening, this is important because Oral Cancer is on the rise, especially in young adults.

04

Dental examination

Finally, your dentist will examine your teeth and mouth for any problems that may be developing. If we find anything, we will discuss treatment options with you.

Frequently asked questions about routine and preventative dental care

FAQ

How often should I see the dentist for preventative dental care?

You should typically see the dentist every six months for preventative dental care. However, if you have a history of oral health problems, you may need to see the dentist more frequently.

FAQ

What is the best way to brush my teeth?

There is no one “right” way to brush your teeth. However, it is important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Additionally, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day.

FAQ

What is the best way to floss my teeth?

There is no one “right” way to floss your teeth. However, it is important to use dental floss that is gentle on your gums. Additionally, you should floss your teeth every day.

FAQ

I’m pregnant. Is it still safe for me to see the dentist?

Yes, it is safe for you to see the dentist while you are pregnant. In fact, it is recommended that you see the dentist for routine dental care during your pregnancy.

FAQ

I have diabetes. How does that affect my oral health?

People with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing gum disease. Therefore, it is important for people with diabetes to see the dentist regularly for preventative dental care.

FAQ

I have a fear of the dentist. What can I do?

There are many ways to overcome your fear of the dentist. You can start by finding a dentist that you feel comfortable with. Additionally, you can ask your dentist about sedation options that may be available to help you relax during your dental appointment.