Preventive Dentist Protecting Fort Worth Residents Smiles
Visiting the Fort Worth office of Distinguished Dental for routine preventive care is essential if you want to enjoy better oral health. Through continuing dental care with regular cleanings and exams, Dr. McIntosh will help you keep your smile clean while also monitoring for any changes that need to be addressed. By scheduling regular dental checkups at least every six months, you help us help you prevent dental health concerns from becoming bigger and possibly more expensive problems, or from becoming a dental emergency.
A common problem is gum disease. Estimates are that between 70 to 90 percent of Americans have some form of periodontal disease. Whether gingivitis or periodontitis, this disease is a mouth infection that can negatively impact overall health and may lead to a higher risk of serious bodily diseases including heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Regularly scheduled dental checkups help to prevent periodontal disease and lower the risk of overall health problems.
One of the first preventive measures we take is actually a recommendation. We love Philips Sonicare Toothbrushes. In fact, we love them so much, we sell them right here in our Fort Worth office at discounted prices. Sonicare’s brushes use gentle yet powerful vibrations to help you brush more thoroughly and effectively. If you’ve always used a traditional brush, then consider the benefits of switching to Sonicare. The quality of your brushing goes a long way in helping to prevent dental health problems.
Digital X-rays
Preventive dentistry requires Dr. McIntosh to “see” a full picture of your oral health, and while a visual exam is important, there are always spots that remain unseen. That’s when digital x-rays help complete the picture, allowing us to diagnose oral health concerns like tooth decay, chips and cracks, or signs of teeth grinding. Unlike traditional x-rays on film, these are generated on a computer screen, so you and the dentist can see exactly what’s going on in your mouth, both above and below the gum line. We’ll use these images to show you what your dental care needs are and how we will address them.
Furthermore, digital x-rays are healthier for patients because they require less radiation than traditional x-rays. Similarly, digital x-rays are better for the environment because they do not use harsh chemicals to develop film.
Dental Sealants
One of the most common and effective treatments to prevent tooth decay is the application of dental sealants. These modern dental wonders shield teeth against the acid-generating bacteria that can cause decay. Dental sealants are particularly helpful on children’s second molars, which usually erupt between the ages of 11 and 13. Molars are naturally pitted and grooved, so proper cleaning can be difficult for anyone, let alone children who may not have the dexterity or patience to brush well. Dental sealants are applied as a liquid that hardens to form a barrier between teeth and bacteria. Your dental insurance may provide some coverage for dental sealants, because many companies recognize the value of these as preventive measures.
Oral Cancer Screening
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, some 45,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Found early, this cancer is treatable. Therefore, to help prevent this disease among her patients, Dr. McIntosh conducts a complete oral cancer screening at checkups. She will conduct a complete mouth, head and neck exam, searching for any signs of oral cancer, which can include:
- A small white or red spot
- A sore that bleeds easily or doesn’t heal
- A lump or swelling in your oral tissue
- Ear pain in the absence of an infection
- Trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking
- A chronic sore throat or hoarse voice
- Changes in the color of your oral tissue
- Feelings of pain, tenderness or numbness in your mouth or on your lips
If you haven’t seen a dentist in some time, then make an appointment with Dr. McIntosh at Distinguished Dental. We offer general, preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry services for you and your entire family. Dr. McIntosh happily welcomes families from communities in Fort Worth and beyond.