The goal of preventive dentistry is to help you avoid oral health issues, such as cavities and gum disease. It’s also an umbrella term that includes a lot of dental services, from teeth cleanings to sports night guards. Our dentist in South Bend, IN, offers preventive dental care to help you maintain a healthy smile for life.
Here’s what you need to know about preventive dentistry and the types of services we offer at Select Dental Associates. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.
Oral Hygiene Counseling
Have questions about your oral health and wellness? Our dentist is an excellent source of wisdom on your journey to a healthier, more attractive smile. Dr. Gasko would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about your oral health. That way, you can feel informed, confident, and empowered about the decisions you’re making for your smile. Oral hygiene counseling is a vital component of preventive dentistry.
Teeth Cleanings
In general, you should get a professional teeth cleaning every six months. However, Dr. Gasko may recommend more frequent visits if he needs to monitor a chronic condition like periodontitis. During your teeth cleaning appointment, we’ll remove plaque and tartar buildup. While you can remove plaque at home by brushing and flossing, only a skilled dental professional will be able to remove tartar.
Oral Cancer Screenings
You may have a higher risk of oral and throat cancer if you smoke, spend a lot of time outside, or have a family history of cancer. If you have any risk factors, Dr. Gasko may recommend routine oral cancer screenings. That way, he’ll be able to detect any cancer while it’s in its early stages and at its most treatable.
Dental Sealants
A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating that we paint onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Our dentist in South Bend, IN, may recommend sealants if you have deep grooves or divots where bacteria accumulates. If left untreated, plaque buildup can turn into tartar and increase your risk of cavities. For this reason, Dr. Gasko may suggest the dental sealant procedure so you can maintain a healthy smile.
Night Guards
Our dentist may recommend that you wear a custom night guard if you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep, which is a condition called bruxism. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to enamel loss, chipped teeth, headaches, and other side effects that can affect your quality of life. If you suspect you have bruxism, schedule an appointment with our dentist right away.
Sports Night Guards
Do you play a contact sport like football or hockey? If so, Dr. Gasko will recommend wearing a custom sports mouth guard. Unlike a boil-and-bite mouth guard, a custom appliance from our dentist is designed to fit every contour of your smile. This ensures a comfortable fit while offering superior protection in the event you’re hit in the face during a game or practice.
Book an Appointment With Dr. Gasko
Dr. Michael Gasko is an experienced dentist in South Bend, IN. He’s also accepting new patients and would be more than happy to help you achieve a healthier smile you’ll be proud to show off to everyone you meet. To schedule an appointment, please call Select Dental Associates at (574) 213-7478. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.