Preventative Dentistry in Riverside, CA
Preventative dentistry is the practice of caring for your teeth and gums to keep them healthy and stop problems before they start. At Riverside Tooth Co., Dr. Sandhu and our team help patients of all ages in Riverside, CA maintain beautiful, healthy smiles and reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and costly treatment down the road. Prevention works best as a partnership, combining daily care at home with regular professional visits to our office.
Request an AppointmentTypes of Preventative Dentistry
Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings
During a dental checkup, Dr. Sandhu examines your teeth, gums, and soft tissues for early signs of trouble. A professional cleaning (prophylaxis) removes hardened plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas and polishes away stains from coffee, wine, and soda. Cleanings are one of the best ways to keep your gums healthy and prevent gingivitis.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens enamel and helps prevent tooth decay. We apply a fluoride varnish that continues to work for several hours after your visit, helping remineralize weak spots and protect against cavities. Fluoride can also reduce tooth sensitivity.
Digital X-Rays and Oral Screenings
Digital x-rays let us see between teeth, below the gumline, and under existing fillings, where problems often start. Combined with a visual oral screening, they help us catch issues before they cause pain.
Dental Sealants
In addition to brushing and flossing, we may recommend dental sealants for your child’s back teeth. Sealants are thin, protective coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of molars to keep food and bacteria out of deep grooves where cavities often begin.
Request an AppointmentBenefits of Preventative Dentistry
Regular professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar so you are less likely to develop cavities or gum disease. During each exam, we check for decay, gingivitis, and other oral health concerns so we can treat them early. If we find an issue, we create a plan to restore your oral health before the problem becomes painful or severe.
Prevention also saves money. Common problems like tooth decay and gum disease are painless in their early stages, and treating them early with a small filling or a cleaning costs far less than root canal therapy, crowns, or extractions later. Learn more about our full range of dental services.
Preventative Dentistry FAQs
How often should I have a dental cleaning?
Most patients benefit from a cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with gum disease or a high risk of cavities may need more frequent visits.
Is preventative care covered by insurance?
Most PPO plans cover preventive services such as exams, cleanings, and x-rays at a high percentage. See our insurance information page for the plans we accept.
At what age should my child first see the dentist?
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help kids get comfortable and allow us to apply preventive treatments like fluoride.
Are dental sealants only for kids?
Sealants are most common for children and teens, but adults with deep grooves and no fillings on their back teeth can benefit too.
Can preventative dentistry stop gum disease?
Regular cleanings and good home care can prevent and even reverse early gum disease. More advanced cases may need periodontal care.
What can I do at home to prevent cavities?
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary snacks and drinks, drink plenty of water, and keep up with your regular dental visits.
Why should I see the dentist if nothing hurts?
Cavities and gum disease are usually painless in their early stages. Routine visits allow us to find and treat problems early, when treatment is simpler and less expensive.
Schedule Your Preventive Dental Visit
Call Riverside Tooth Co. at (951) 686-2565 or request an appointment online to schedule your visit at 6886 Indiana Ave Suite B in Riverside, CA . New patients can save with our new patient special.