Every member of your family deserves to have a healthy, beautiful smile. In most cases, when a child begins life with a healthy diet, visits the dentist by their first birthday (and every six months after that), and practices good oral hygiene, they can maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime!
Preventive care is a major part of our family dentistry services in Huntington Beach. Preventive treatments include dental cleanings, exams, oral cancer screening, sealants, fluoride treatment, and periodontal maintenance.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jason Cellars, contact our friendly dental team today. To learn more about our preventive family dentistry services, continue reading this article.
Dental Cleanings
It is recommended that most people visit the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning, or dental prophylaxis. These appointments provide opportunities to clean parts of the mouth that are difficult to clean at home with a regular toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
During a dental cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist removes calculus (tartar) and plaque from the teeth and polishes the teeth using professional tools and products.
Dental Exam
Usually, during a dental cleaning appointment, the dental team conducts a thorough dental exam to spot early signs of decay, disease, oral cancer, and other oral health problems. This family dentistry service consists of x-rays, oral cancer screening, gum disease evaluation, checking the tooth surfaces for decay, and an examination of existing restorations.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer causes nearly 10,000 deaths per year. The good news is that when it is caught in the early stages, the survival rate is high. The key to early detection is to visit the dentist at least every six months for an oral cancer screening.
Oral cancer screening includes:
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A visual examination
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Feeling around your mouth and throat for abnormalities
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A brush test if necessary
Schedule an appointment with us today if you have any of the following oral cancer symptoms:
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Red or white spots or sores in your mouth
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A sore that continuously bleeds
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A sore that does not heal
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A lump, thickening, or rough spot
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Pain, numbness, or tenderness anywhere in the mouth
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Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking
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Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
Sealants
Dental sealants are an effective family dentistry service. Children, teens, and adults can all benefit from dental sealants on their molars. A sealant is a thin, plastic coating that protects the pits and fissures of the most vulnerable teeth from tooth decay. Sealants protect teeth from decay for many years.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel to protect against decay. Dentists often recommend a fluoride treatment if you:
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Have poor oral hygiene habits
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Eat sugar and carbs frequently
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Have inadequate exposure to fluoride
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Have a recent history of cavities
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Have inadequate saliva flow
During the fluoride treatment, a dentist or hygienist will apply a highly concentrated rinse, foam, gel, or varnish to the teeth. This takes just a few minutes. After the fluoride treatment, you should avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes.
Family Dentistry Services in Huntington Beach
Dr. Jason Cellars can help you and your family achieve and maintain optimal oral health through compassionate, comprehensive dentistry. Contact us today at (714) 848-4247 to schedule appointments for you and your family members.
