A quick guide to preventive dentistry

Preventive dental care matters because it can reduce the need for extensive dental work such as fillings, extractions, crowns, implants, and bridges.

But dental problems that are avoidable through proper preventive care can impact more than just your teeth. Dental issues like gingivitis and periodontitis can contribute to other serious health problems, including:¹

• Cardiovascular disease
• Stroke
• Pneumonia
• Pregnancy complications, including premature birth and low birth weight

You can help prevent various dental issues by seeing your dentist for preventive care every 6 months.¹ Many dental insurance plans fully cover regular dentist visits and preventive services such as cleanings, check-ups, and fluoride treatments.

Here's what you can expect when you head to the dentist for your preventive visit:

Good preventive dental care starts with you. You can prevent common dental problems, like cavities and gingivitis, by:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily for two full minutes using fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing to clean in between your teeth daily
• Brushing your tongue or use a tongue scraper
• Rinsing with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash every day
• Avoiding sugary drinks and snacks
• Using an electric toothbrush to more effectively remove dental plaque and decrease gum inflammation
• Avoiding at-home orthodontic treatments
• Consuming fluoridated water to reduce your risk of cavities
• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding oral piercings