Preventive Dentistry in Amarillo
Seeing a dentist regularly—when paired with good home hygiene—can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. To keep your smile healthy, plan your preventive care visits twice a year.
What to Expect With Our Preventive Dental Services in Amarillo
Our preventive dental services include professional cleanings, oral cancer screenings, periodontal assessments, fluoride, and sealants. We also offer dentinal sealants for our patients with gum recession to reduce their chances of tooth sensitivity and root-surface cavities.
Each of our cleanings is performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist who has advanced training in oral-systemic biology, dental pathology, and head and neck anatomy. As your partner in preventive dentistry, our team of hygienists helps empower patients to keep their smiles healthy for life.
What if I Have Gum Disease?
Our periodontal therapy options include scaling and root planing (deep cleanings) to target gum disease at its source. Plus, our team will work with you to develop a tailored oral hygiene plan to help prevent gum infections from coming back.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, so it’s important to stay ahead of periodontal infections. If you’re experiencing symptoms of tender or bleeding gums, sore teeth, or bad breath, be sure to reserve an exam and gum disease screening at your earliest convenience.
What are Dental Sealants?
Sealants are protective covers that help safeguard weak or cavity-prone areas of specific teeth. Such as the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of your molars. As non-invasive therapies, sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay before it starts, making it easier to keep these surfaces clean between checkups.
Specialized dental sealants also offer added protection on highly sensitive areas, like exposed tooth roots. If you show signs of gum recession, sealing over those surfaces can help protect your smile for many more years to come.
Dental Sealants FAQs
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What are dental sealants made of?
Call us for more infoDental sealants are typically made of a plastic resin material. This resin is usually a liquid that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, specifically the molars and premolars. Once applied, the resin is hardened using a special light, creating a protective barrier over the enamel of the teeth.
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Who needs dental sealants?
Call us for more infoDental sealants are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers, as their newly erupted permanent molars and premolars are most vulnerable to cavities. However, adults can also benefit from sealants if they have deep grooves or pits in their teeth that haven't been affected by decay or fillings. Sealants are especially recommended for those who are at a higher risk of developing cavities, including individuals with a history of tooth decay, poor oral hygiene, or limited access to fluoride. By providing an extra layer of protection, sealants help prevent cavities and maintain oral health.
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Do I have to prepare for sealants?
Call us for more infoPreparing for dental sealants is simple and requires minimal effort. There is no need for special preparations or dietary restrictions before the procedure.
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Are there disadvantages to sealants?
Call us for more infoWhile dental sealants offer significant benefits, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider. Sealants can occasionally chip or wear away, necessitating reapplication to maintain their protective effect. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the materials used, though this is rare. Additionally, sealants may give a false sense of security, leading individuals to neglect regular brushing and flossing, which are still essential for overall oral health. However, these drawbacks are generally minor compared to the substantial cavity-preventing advantages sealants provide.
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When can I eat or drink after getting sealants?
Call us for more infoAfter getting dental sealants, you can eat or drink almost immediately. The sealant material hardens quickly once applied, often with the aid of a special curing light. This rapid hardening means there's no need for a waiting period, allowing you to resume your normal diet right after your dental appointment. However, it's wise to avoid very sticky or hard foods initially, as these can potentially dislodge the freshly applied sealants. Following your dentist's advice on maintaining sealants will ensure they last longer and continue to protect your teeth effectively.
Schedule Your Next Checkup
If it’s been six months or longer since your last dental exam and cleaning, call Panhandle Dental today! Our Amarillo dental team offers checkups for all ages.