Navigation image: Dr. Douglas Johnson Dentistry Home Page Navigation button: Dr. Douglas Johnson Dentistry Home Page Navigation button: Dental Services Dentistry Navigation button: Meet Us Dentistry Navigation button: Contact Us Dentistry Phone: 360.835.3738

Types of Preventative Care:

By using these preventative measures you can keep your teeth healthy! You can prevent decay and any problems before they happen. Here are a few types of prevention services. Talk to us about which one would work best for you.

Fluoride
When you eat sugar or refined carbohydrates it creates acid due to the bacteria, which removes minerals from the surface of your teeth.  Over time this causes cavities.  There are fluoride treatments that can remove the buildup of bacteria and reverse the process of the acid breakdown on your teeth, preventing cavities from forming.  The fluoride reduces the ability of the bacteria to produce acid.  You may not be aware that tooth decay is an infectious and transmissible bacterial disease, which is why preventative treatments such as fluoride are so critical.

Regular Check-Ups & Cleanings
Your dentist and hygienist have tools they use that allow them to clean your teeth at a level that you are unable to do at home.  Having your teeth professionally cleaned allows the dentist or hygienist to remove the plaque, tartar and stains from your teeth.  It is important to have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year in order to remove any buildup that may have formed and to supplement your own cleaning routine.  Along with regular check ups and cleanings, along with using your own cleaning routine, it is important to eat a healthy balanced diet and to refrain from smoking and tobacco use as it leads to further dental complications.

Sealants
A sealant is a plastic material that is usually bonded to the back-teeth molars on the chewing surface. It helps prevent tooth decay and cavities by protecting your teeth in areas that are hard to clean.

X-Rays
X-Rays can reveal small areas of decay that can surround your fillings, or be in-between your teeth in areas that are too small to be seen when the dentist examines your mouth. X-Rays can also be used to look for infections, gum disease, cysts, abscesses, and some types of tumors. Early detection of these problems can help treatment exponentially by starting before the problems are fully developed or past the point of easy care.

Desensitization of Teeth
Do you have overly sensitive teeth? They can be treated. One way is by using desensitizing toothpaste. There are also in-office treatments such as fluoride gel, or sealant. All of these methods work to block the receptors on and around your teeth from reacting to temperature, and other factors which cause pain and discomfort in those with sensitive teeth and gums.

Talk to Dr. Johnson about the best preventative measures for you to take. His practice in Washougal, WA is prepared and able to provide you with the best in preventative care. He is currently accepting patients from Washougal and the surrounding areas of Clark County, Washington.

 

back

DENTAL EXCELLENCE - 275 PENDLETON WAY, WASHOUGAL, WA 98671 - 360.835.3738
GENERAL AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY