Preventative Dentistry
At Allen Dental Inc., our Preventive Care services are designed to maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental issues before they arise. By focusing on regular maintenance and early detection, we help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Scroll down to browse our Preventative Care services or use the buttons below to jump to the particular service of your interest.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are like a shield for your teeth! They’re a thin, protective coating that covers the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, especially in those hard-to-reach grooves where cavities often start. By sealing these deep grooves, sealants make your teeth easier to clean and help prevent decay.
Sealants are durable and can last for years, but your dentist will check them regularly to ensure they stay strong and effective.
Who Can Benefit from Sealants?
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Kids and Teens: Perfect for ages 6-16, especially when the first permanent molars appear.
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Adults: Great for teeth with deep grooves and no current decay.
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Little Ones: Sometimes applied to baby teeth if a child is prone to cavities.
How Does the Process Work?
Getting sealants is simple, quick, and painless!
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The teeth are cleaned and dried.
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A bonding solution is applied to help the sealant stick.
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The sealant is carefully painted on and hardened with a special light.
With regular brushing, a healthy diet, and routine dental check-ups, sealants can help keep your smile cavity-free for years to come!
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a natural mineral and one of the most effective ways to protect teeth from decay. Found in many foods and water supplies, fluoride has been used for over 50 years to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
How Does Fluoride Work?
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Topical Fluoride: Applied directly to teeth, it strengthens the enamel, making it more resistant to decay. You get topical fluoride from toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional treatments during dental check-ups.
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Systemic Fluoride: Found in food and water, it helps strengthen both developing teeth under the gums and those already in the mouth. It can also be prescribed as drops or tablets for children who need extra protection.
Extra fluoride may be recommended for those with deep grooves, exposed roots, poor oral hygiene, high sugar intake, low fluoride exposure, or a recent history of cavities.
For best results, pair fluoride with good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits to keep your smile strong and healthy!
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year, but when detected early, it can often be treated effectively. Regular screenings are essential, as early stages of oral cancer may not show noticeable symptoms.
What to Expect During a Screening
Oral cancer exams are quick and painless. Your dentist will visually inspect and gently feel the face, neck, and mouth for any signs of abnormalities, such as:
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Red or white patches and sores that don’t heal.
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Leukoplakia, a white or gray raised lesion inside the mouth.
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Lumps or thickened tissue in the mouth or throat.
Advanced tools like lasers may be used to detect changes beneath the surface that aren’t visible to the eye.
Common Areas for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can occur in various regions, including the lips, mouth, tongue, gums, salivary glands, throat, and face.
Why Screenings Matter
About 75% of oral cancers are linked to modifiable behaviors like smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Early detection improves treatment success rates. If abnormalities are found, your dentist may recommend further evaluation or a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis.
Annual oral cancer screenings, along with regular dental check-ups, are crucial for early detection and prevention. If you have concerns or notice unusual changes, don’t hesitate to reach out to our practice.
Dental Exams & Cleanings
Regular dental exams and cleanings are vital for maintaining a healthy smile. At your first visit, your dentist will perform a comprehensive exam, and regular check-ups will include:
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Digital X-rays: Advanced, low-radiation X-rays detect hidden issues like decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.
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Oral Cancer Screening: Examination of the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums for abnormalities.
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Gum Disease Evaluation: Assessment of gums and bone for periodontal disease.
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Decay and Restoration Checks: Inspection of all teeth and existing dental work like fillings and crowns.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Cleanings include removing tartar, plaque, and stains that brushing can’t reach, leaving teeth polished and gums healthy.
Why Are X-rays Important?
X-rays are key for detecting hidden problems early, saving time and discomfort. Their frequency depends on individual needs, but bite-wing X-rays are often done yearly, with a full series every 3-5 years.
Consistent exams, cleanings, and X-rays ensure a healthy, confident smile!