We all know that taking our car in for regular oil changes and maintenance increases the car’s life. We know that maintaining our heating/AC at home keeps it running for decades. Regular blood tests and blood pressure checks keep our hearts healthy and our bodies thriving. Why not give our oral health the same attention we give these other parts of our life?
Preventative dentistry is crucial to keeping our mouth, teeth, and gums healthy, but unfortunately, many people don’t find the time to schedule those twice-yearly dental checkups. The best general dentist in Anchorage can’t help you unless you take the first step and schedule your appointment so he can assess the current state of your oral health.
General dentistry focuses on the health and function of your teeth and gums, and preventative dentistry will likely prevent serious dental problems. Wouldn’t you rather go to your favorite Anchorage, Alaska, general dentist twice a year than need extensive dental work done because your oral health has been neglected?
Why Preventative Dentistry?
If you’re of the mindset, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” you need to know that does not apply to your oral health. Instead, general preventative dentistry says, “Don’t let it get broken, so we don’t have to fix it.”
Preventative dentistry allows you to avoid or lessen:
- Cavities
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Loss of enamel
- Tooth decay
There are a number of health problems associated with poor oral care:
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Osteoporosis
- Respiratory disease
- Cancer
Take Steps to Improve Your Oral Health
In addition to twice-yearly visits to your Anchorage, Alaska, general dentist, you can do a lot at home to improve your oral health:
- Brush your teeth twice daily, at least
- Brush properly with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brush your tongue
- Ask your dentist if you should use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss at least once a day
- Ask your general dentist about mouthwash
- Drink lots of water as it washes off sticky, acidic food particles
What to Expect with General/Preventative Dentistry
Your Anchorage, Alaska, general dentist will focus on your oral health by performing the following:
- Dental cleanings
- Dental exams
- Oral cancer screenings
- Periodontics
- Dental fillings
- Root canals, if necessary
Using the most advanced dental technology available today, your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination to determine your current oral health state.
Sedation Dentistry
If you have dental anxiety or phobia, sedation dentistry options will allow you to remain calm and comfortable during your dental procedures. Many people put off general preventative dentistry because their fear of the dentist is too much to bear. Your Anchorage, Alaska, general dentist has a number of ways to keep you calm and comfortable during your dental visit.
Oral Conscious Sedation is a hugely popular and highly effective means to keep patients calm. During your visit, you will be awake but may experience some sleepiness as the medication helps your brain and body relax. Depending on your needs, we may give you more or less medication to help you overcome your dental anxiety.
Our dental team knows how much sedative to give so you are comfortable throughout your treatment. Since oral sedatives wear off fairly quickly, you can drive home safely after your appointment. Once your appointment ends, we’ll have you wait in our office until you’re well enough to drive.
IV Sedation
We use IV sedation for more complicated procedures, such as extractions and root canals. Since IV sedation enters through your bloodstream, the effects are almost immediate. With IV sedation, you will be fully unconscious for the entire dental visit and will not remember the procedure. You’ll still feel drowsy when you wake up, so someone will have to drive you home from your appointment.
General Preventative Dentistry Can Save Your Teeth and Your Life
Dr. Richard Crosby General & Cosmetic Dentistry is simply a phone call away (907) 277-1098. Why put off caring for your oral health another day? Please fill out our online contact form for questions or to schedule a new patient evaluation.
