With preventive dentistry it is possible to maintain oral hygiene and keep your teeth in healthy condition. Dental fillings and extractions become essential for most of us as we age. However, if you are careful of your dental health these problems can be avoided. Preventative dentistry helps identify these problems at an early stage so that corrective action can be taken and remedies suggested. Your dental expert will examine your teeth and gums for any kind of disease that could affect your oral health.

Start on preventive dentistry right from your home by following a dental hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day will ensure oral cleanliness and hygiene. Also don't forget to floss everyday to remove food particles and plaque stuck between the crevices of your teeth. It is extremely important to follow the correct brushing and flossing techniques. Ask your preventative dental hygienist to explain these techniques to you.

As a part of preventative dentistry, it is recommended that you visit your dentist for a check-up every six months. Brushing and flossing does not get rid of the plaque completely. Regular clean-up of the teeth is necessary to remove the accumulated plaque and tartar. The clean-up can also be scheduled along with a dental exam, which is every six months. During the dental exam, the dentist will check the condition of the tooth fillings, look for early signs of tooth decay and gum disease.

Depending on the condition of your teeth, your dentist may recommend tooth filling or a crown to protect it from deteriorating. Preventive dentistry thus ensures that the minor problems don't escalate into major ones. Fluoride is known to resist tooth decay. As a preventive measure, the dentist might also recommend using toothpaste with the right level of fluoride for you. Preventative dentistry is especially useful for children to prevent tooth decay and other periodontal diseases.