General Dentistry
Prevention is a crucial part of maintaining excellent oral health. Our nearby dentist can provide the vital support your teeth need.
Preventive Dentistry – Shorewood, WI
Dental Care for the Whole Family
A healthy smile begins with regular brushing and flossing at home, but it doesn't end there. Routine preventive dental care is just as important for anyone who wants to enjoy good oral health. During your appointment, we'll look for signs of the most common oral health problems, including cavities, gum disease, TMJ dysfunction, and even oral cancer. Then, based on the results of your exam, we can talk you through your next steps. To learn more about preventive dentistry or to schedule your next checkup, just give our office a call!
Why Choose Shorewood Family Dentistry for Preventive Dentistry?
- Comprehensive Dental Care Under One Roof
- Adult & Children Patients Proudly Welcome
- Dental Insurance Accepted & Financing Available
Dental Checkups & Cleanings
At Shorewood Family Dentistry, we recommend that patients see us at least twice a year for a regular exam, cleaning, and other general dental options. During these sessions, we'll look for signs of the most common oral health problems, like cavities, gum disease, and more. We can then talk to you about receiving extra care with any of our other services. One example is tooth-colored fillings, used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay and blend in seamlessly with your unique tooth shade.
Learn More About Dental Checkups & Cleanings
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment is a simple, painless way to better protect your teeth from cavities between dental appointments. Used primarily on children’s teeth because they are still learning how to brush and floss properly, fluoride is recommended for all ages because of its immense benefits. With fluoride treatment applied at regular checkups and cleanings, your teeth can stay healthier longer.
Learn More
What is Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride is an important mineral that strengthens enamel and protects teeth from decay-causing bacteria and acidic food or drinks. Fluoride is a key ingredient in most toothpaste brands, and it’s added to tap water in most U.S. communities. However, patients who struggle with tooth decay may benefit from extra care with fluoride. A special fluoride treatment can be administered at your next checkup, providing your smile with extra protection against cavities and sensitivity.
How Does Fluoride Treatment Work?
When your dentist in Shorewood applies fluoride to your teeth, it penetrates the enamel (the outer layer) and bonds with the calcium and phosphate already present. This combination helps strengthen and remineralize your teeth's structure. In other words, it works to rebuild weakened enamel.
Fluoride also reduces how much acid is produced by the bad bacteria in your mouth. As a result, it slows the development of harmful decay that causes cavities.
Who Benefits from Fluoride Treatment?
It is commonly recommended that children of all ages receive fluoride treatment in Shorewood; however, those considered high risk should receive regular applications every 3-6 months. These are children who have a history of cavities and undeveloped oral hygiene habits.
Adults at high risk can also benefit from fluoride treatment, especially if gum disease is present, you have a history of cavities, you experience dry mouth, or you show signs of enamel erosion.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is among the deadliest forms of cancer—but did you know that it’s also one of the more preventable types? It’s also far easier to treat in its early stages. This is why during every routine checkup, our team will perform a thorough oral cancer screening to ensure that no signs of the disease are lurking under the radar. Part of this process involves detailed digital imaging that allows us to scan your entire upper and lower jaw in one clear image.
Gum Disease Treatment
Symptoms of gum disease include sensitive or bleeding gums, inflammation, persistent bad breath, a receding gum line, and loose teeth. Fortunately, our team offers comprehensive periodontal therapy. Performed more frequently than biannual cleanings, periodontal therapy can include scaling and root planing, a process that promotes healthy gum tissue. Arestin (minocycline), a proven antibiotic, may be used to aid in the elimination of periodontal disease.
To ensure that you receive the best possible care, there are times when we might need to refer you to a periodontal specialist in certain advanced cases. Our team will be sure to help you get this appointment set up, and we’ll also follow up with you afterwards!
Nightguards for Bruxism
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is a condition that many patients are unaware of, since it most often happens during the night while they’re asleep. However, bruxism can lead to worn-down teeth, aggravated jaw joints, and other dental health issues when left unaddressed. Luckily, bruxism can often be helped with a custom-made nightguard, which is a special type of oral appliance worn to bed that gently positions the jaw to prevent contact between the teeth.
Children’s Dentistry
Our team is also happy to serve the oral healthcare needs of the youngest smiles in your family with gentle pediatric dentistry. We can begin seeing children as soon as they have teeth. Remember, oral care begins early on, and by helping your child keep their teeth and gums in great shape, you’re promoting lasting, future dental health. From routine checkups and cleanings to fluoride treatments and beyond, if it’ll help your child’s dental development, you can find it under our roof.