Preventative Care
James M. Schreiner, DDS is a general family dentist who cares about his patients and believes that prevention is better than restoration. Having regular dental cleanings are a vital part of maintaining good oral health and preventing future tooth problems.
Routine dental exams
When you come visit Dr. Schreiner for a preventative care, you will have a thorough cleaning for the removal of plaque and tarter followed by a dental exam. During an exam, Dr. Schreiner is doing the important task of looking for cavities, gum disease, and signs of oral cancer in your mouth. This is done using a small mirror to see your teeth from different angles. It often includes taking images of your teeth (x-rays) to see what lies under the gums. Dr. Schreiner or his hygienist also evaluates your risk for tooth decay, root decay, and gum or bone disease. He also will look at your bite and jaw to make sure they are in alignment correctly. Part of the having good oral hygiene is being educated. Dr. Schreiner may also discuss the food you eat and your brushing and flossing habits to be sure you are well-informed of their importance and how they benefit your dental health. For some, lifestyle factors, such as use of tobacco products or any medications may play a role on your oral health may also be part of the conversation.
WHY IS PREVENTATIVE WORK IMPORTANT?
Having regular oral exams is important for your dental health because it helps catch other issues that may otherwise be left untreated, such as cavities forming that can be corrected easier if caught early. In addition, prevention can also help protect your body’s overall health. You may not know that a regular dental exam can recognize early signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or lupus by examining your mouth. It can also catch oral cancer in early stages and lead you to take further steps with your physician.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD THIS BE DONE?
The general recommendation for patients of all ages is to have a dental exam every six months. However, if you have certain conditions, like periodontal disease, Dr. Schreiner will probably recommend more frequent visits to monitor the infection.