No one sets out to purposely neglect their teeth. However, over time, a combination of normal wear and poor dental hygiene can take its toll on your mouth. To avoid cavities, infection, and tooth decay, you should have dental checkups every six months with Dr. Zadeh, Beverly Hills dentist. During your checkups, Dr. Zadeh will employ several procedures to maintain your oral health.

The first, and perhaps most important, task in preventative dentistry is to have your teeth examined and x-rayed on a regular basis. The x-rays and examination can reveal problems with your teeth before they become a major issue. For example, the x-rays might reveal a hidden cavity, enabling Dr. Zadeh to treat it before it overtakes the entire tooth. Alternatively, your exam might reveal gum disease or problems with worn enamel. Identifying these problems early can prevent more severe problems as well as tooth loss.

The examination is not the only preventative dentistry tool at Dr. Zadeh’s disposal. Another way to protect your teeth from decay is to apply sealants to your teeth. Sealants are thin sheets made from a special plastic. Once these sealants are applied to your teeth, they protect the tooth from decay. These sealants are typically applied to the back teeth, since these teeth are the most vulnerable to decay. If you are interested in getting sealants, or if you are not sure if you need them, Dr. Zadeh can examine your teeth and determine if they are right for you.

You can practice preventative dentistry yourself by ensuring that you are taking proper care of your teeth. Brush your teeth after each meal and floss your teeth at least once a day. Avoid consuming foods and beverages that contain a lot of sugar, and brush your teeth immediately after you eat or drink anything with sugar. Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria in places where brushing and flossing cannot reach.

Preventative dentistry can save you time, money, and pain in the long run. If you do not have a routine checkup scheduled, call Dr. Zadeh’s office at 310-273-9919 to schedule an appointment. When it comes to your oral health, an ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure.