Preventive Dental Care…What does it mean??

Screenshot of a recent TriCare Dental Program”s newsletter

This is a recent screenshot of TriCare Dental Program’s newsletter. I’m only showing this as an example. It’s quite common to see this especially for those of you that pay attention to dental health or receive newsletters. It starts off with good intentions emphasizing preventive dental care: routine dental checkups, teeth cleanings. While I do definitely agree with routine dental checkups and teeth cleaning, this newsletter focuses on a good majority of treatment with the exception of space maintainer care: teeth cleanings, fluoride treatment, space maintainers, sealants. It shows that we, as dentists, lean heavily on treatment. As a result, our patients become treatment dependent. We assume that eventually everything will be fixed.

Preventive dental care should also consist of daily hygiene. It should be emphasized. Teaching patients not only brushing (not so much focusing on technique), but also going in between our teeth and inside our gums to clean. We also need to be good motivators and that’s always a challenge. It is a habit ever since we were kids to rely on brushing and toothpaste with the occasional flossing, use of mouthwash, and maybe waterpik. These are tools where we hope that somehow it does the job. In reality, it doesn’t. If you don’t believe me, just wait it really won’t prevent you from having dental problems. Changing our habits can be difficult but if it saves us money and time, why not???!

Learn more by checking out our videos which teach you step by step how to clean your teeth at www.ismartgums.com/offerpage

If you are hesitant, check out our free opt in offer and sign up for our email list.