Fall into Better Health with 8 Preventive Treatments

It’s that time of year – the time when everyone begins rummaging through their house or going to the store to pick up fall decorations! Soon, we’ll be greeting kids at the door with Halloween goodies or taking our own kids out for fall festivities! At 1st In Smiles, we’d like to help you celebrate the new season with a clean bill of health! With Dr. Barfield’s preventive treatments, you and your family can rest assured that your dental health will help you smile bright for life!

Let’s take a look at eight treatments that can prevent tooth decay, disease, and other common dental problems.

1. Cleanings and Exams

This is one of the best ways to keep your dental health in tip-top shape! Although brushing and flossing at home is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your oral health, there are some places you just can’t reach and some issues you can’t catch. That makes it vital to supplement your own care with professional cleanings!

We recommend coming in twice a year for a cleaning and exam. At your visit, we’ll take X-rays, check you for any problems, and do a thorough cleaning that can get rid of all that tartar buildup that your toothbrush can’t. Sit back and relax with a head pillow and some music while you’re here!

2. Fluoride

At our Plano, TX dental office, you can take advantage of our fluoride treatments to protect your teeth from decay. Sure, brushing, flossing, and cleanings help, but if you or your kids are cavity-prone, then consider fluoride supplements. You can get a fluoride varnish painted on your teeth here, or we can get you a prescription-strength take-home kit.

3. Fillings

Maybe you haven’t thought of this as a preventive treatment because at this point, you already have a cavity. However, fillings can prevent more damage from happening if your cavity is caught early enough – another reason to see us for regular cleanings. More damage equals more extensive (and expensive!) treatment, from a root canal and crown all the way to an extraction! A small, tooth-colored filling can keep your tooth protected from more harm.

4. Sealants

Did you ever get a sealant as a kid? Sealants aren’t just for kids, though. We regularly place sealants on adult teeth to keep them protected from tooth decay. All those grooves in your back teeth are especially prone to decay, so if you or your own kids have cavities, consider this quick treatment to protect your teeth. We’ll just coat your teeth with a thin tooth-colored material, and you’ll have an instant barrier against bacteria and plaque.

5. Deep Cleaning

If you have signs of gum disease, you may need a deep cleaning. Although we can prevent gum disease if you come in for regular checkups, you may not have been to the dentist for a while and are now suffering the consequences. Don’t think it’s too late to prevent further damage, though. Whether you have a mild stage of gum disease (gingivitis) with bleeding, swollen gums or a more severe stage, with loose teeth and gum recession, we can keep the damage from getting worse and can even improve your health, dental and overall.

6. Invisalign

Most people think of orthodontics as a cosmetic issue. You don’t like the look of crooked or crowded teeth, so you get braces to fix the problem. There’s more to orthodontic care than just appearance, though. Did you know that crooked and crowded teeth are harder to clean and thus more susceptible to decay and gum disease? Don’t let your crooked teeth put your dental health at risk. Help prevent problems with Invisalign, our clear alternative to braces. Once your teeth are straight, you’ll not only have a beautiful smile, but you’ll also decrease your risk for bacteria buildup.

7. Mouthguards

Did you see our July post on athletic mouthguards? If not, read it here. School sports are upon us, and sports guards are a great way to protect your child’s teeth. Mouthguards prevent dental injuries and even dental emergencies, from broken teeth to knocked-out teeth and even jaw damage. Dr. Barfield can make your custom mouthguard right here in our Plano office! The return on your investment is priceless, and your smile will thank you for years to come!

8. Snore Guards

If you or your loved one is a chronic snorer, see us right away to see if your snoring is a sign of sleep apena. This sleep disorder is characterized by pauses in your breathing while you sleep due to lack of oxygen. Obviously, this is a dangerous condition, and it’s been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and mood disorders. Why not start off the new season with better rest and better health? See us for a sleep apnea consultation.

Start the Season Right at 1st In Smiles!

Are you and your family ready for a fantastic fall season? See our caring team here at 1st In Smiles to prevent dental problems and keep you smiling proudly! Call us or fill out our online form at your convenience for an appointment. We can’t wait to see you!