An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

Preventive Medicine is Best

Doctors tell you to eat right, exercise, drink plenty of water, and take vitamins. These recommendations help protect your body against illness and disease. In the medical community, there is a strong movement pushing preventive medicine, because by preventing disease, the individual leads a more productive and enjoyable life, and the community (local, national, and global) spends less time and money on medical costs. The population, as a whole, is more productive, as well. From the individual to big government, preventive medicine helps everyone.

Preventive Dentistry

In dentistry, the gold standard for prevention is six-month checkups and cleanings. Think of these visits as an investment in saving money and time. Just like changing your car's breaks and oil will reduce the risk of more costly repairs in the future, attending dental checkups and cleanings will reduce your risk for more serious dental – and health – problems. When Dr. Allen finds cavities in the earliest stage, called demineralization, he can treat them quickly and easily. The same is true of gingivitis, cracks and chips on teeth, halitosis (bad breath) and other dental concerns.

At Your Dental Checkup

To keep your smile healthy and strong, Dr. Allen will thoroughly evaluate your dental condition at six-month checkups. He'll want to know if you have any concerns, such as pain or abnormalities when brushing and flossing. We may take digital x-rays and/or panoramic x-rays, if necessary, to update your records and address your concerns. Dr. Allen may use DIAGNOdent, and early cavity detection laser, to find cavities in the earliest stage, when conservative treatment may correct the problem. He’ll also screen you for oral cancer, gum disease, and other conditions, based on your symptoms. If you suffer from chronic migraines and jaw pain, or if you snore or think you may have sleep apnea, tell Dr. Allen. He might be able to help!

At Your Dental Cleaning

Twice a year, you need to visit our dental hygienist for a cleaning. As a registered dental hygienist, she has advanced training in the care and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. With an ultrasonic scaler, she'll remove plaque and hardened plaque, called tartar or calculus, from your teeth. This will make your teeth feel smooth and your breath smell fresh. However, it will also deter gum disease. The hygienist will measure the space between your teeth and gums. If periodontal pockets are present, you may have gingivitis, an early form of gum disease. About 80% of American adults have gum disease, so don't be dismayed. A deep cleaning and regular monitoring of the condition, combined with good oral homecare habits, can stop the progression and allow your gums to heal.

After cleaning your teeth, the hygienist will apply a wipe-on fluoride varnish. While your teeth may feel a bit rough after application of the varnish, the fluoride will attract enamel-strengthening minerals to fight tooth decay. Another benefit of the varnish is that you won't have to wear uncomfortable fluoride trays. If you prefer to forego the fluoride varnish, just tell your hygienist.

An Invitation for Your Family

At our dental office in Pella, Iowa, Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit.