Our Preventative Services
During a dental prophylaxis or cleaning, we carefully remove plaque buildup from your teeth and gums to prevent cavities, gum disease, and infections. We also polish your teeth to remove surface stains, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and your smile sparkling.
Our screenings involve a detailed examination of your entire oral cavity to identify any signs of precancerous conditions or cancerous growths early on.
Checkups every six months allow us to thoroughly clean your teeth and remove plaque and tartar that can lead to decay and gum disease. Dr. Hardt also evaluates your oral to identify and addresses issues before they become serious problems.
At Dr. Richard Hardt, DDS, our pediatric dentistry services give kids the knowledge and care they need to keep their smiles bright and healthy as they grow. We check their teeth, use fluoride to protect their smiles against cavities, and put sealants on their back teeth to keep out germs and food.
We also teach them how to brush and floss properly and why eating healthy is important for their teeth.
At What Age Should Preventative Dentistry Begin?
Preventative dentistry should start as early as infancy and continue throughout a person’s life. We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
How Can I Prevent Oral Problems at Home?
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss to get rid of plaque between teeth
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Use mouthwash to help control plaque bacteria
- Wear a mouthguard during sports if applicable
- Avoid tobacco and cigarettes
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist for preventive care?
Most patients should visit our office every six months for routine cleanings and checkups, though some may need more frequent visits based on their oral health status. Patients with gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors may benefit from appointments every three to four months. During these visits, Dr. Hardt, Dr. Cruz, or Dr. Lewis will examine your teeth and gums, take X-rays when necessary, and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that daily brushing can’t eliminate. Regular preventive visits allow us to catch problems early when they’re easier and less expensive to treat, helping you maintain optimal oral health throughout your life.
What role does diet play in preventive dentistry?
Your diet significantly impacts your oral health and the effectiveness of preventive care. Foods high in sugar and acid feed harmful bacteria in your mouth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Frequent snacking, especially on sugary or starchy foods, keeps acid levels high throughout the day, increasing your risk of cavities. Conversely, foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins support strong teeth and healthy gums. Drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria. Dr. Hardt and our team can provide personalized dietary recommendations during your routine checkups to complement your at-home oral hygiene routine.
Can preventive dentistry help avoid expensive dental treatments later?
Absolutely. Preventive dentistry is one of the most cost-effective investments you can make in your health. Regular cleanings, exams, and early intervention can prevent small issues from becoming major problems requiring expensive treatments like root canals, crowns, or tooth extractions. For example, treating a small cavity costs significantly less than addressing an infected tooth that needs root canal therapy. Additionally, professional cleanings help prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and the need for implants or dentures. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care at 100%, recognizing its value in maintaining long-term oral health.
At what age should children start receiving preventive dental care?
Children should have their first dental visit by age one or within six months of their first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. Early preventive care helps establish good oral health habits, allows us to monitor proper tooth development, and helps children become comfortable with dental visits. Our pediatric dentistry services include gentle cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to protect young teeth from decay. We also provide guidance to parents about proper brushing techniques, diet, and habits like thumb-sucking. Starting preventive care early sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles and reduces the likelihood of dental anxiety as children grow
