West Windsor Preventative Dentist

Hygiene & Dental Cleanings

Preventative care is the key to maintaining good oral health. You can do this at home with regular brushing and flossing habits. But making time to see the dentist at least twice per year is critical to ensure that bacteria and plaque don’t sneak up on you.

At a hygiene appointment, a hygienist or doctor will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing debris, bacteria, plaque and hardened tartar with special dental tools. We then polish them with professional grade toothpaste to make your smile sparkle.

Fluoride Treatment

We can provide fluoride treatments to young patients, or anyone at risk of tooth decay. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can help prevent cavities. A typical fluoride treatment is done at the end of your appointment. A varnish is used to apply fluoride to your dentition. The varnish is “painted on” and sticks to your teeth for a few hours after application. It’s important not to rinse, eat, or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after your treatment in order to allow the fluoride to take effect. There are many other methods of fluoride delivery and Dr. Mandeep Singh or Dr. Munira Sulaiman will help provide the best methods for you.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants prevent cavities by creating a physical barrier between the teeth and any harmful bacteria and acids. Dental sealants are applied in liquid form to the teeth, usually to the back molars. Molars have a larger chewing surface and more curves and crevices that can trap bacteria, so those teeth tend to be at higher risk of decay. After the sealant is applied it is hardened with a special light, creating a long-lasting barrier of protection for your child. Dental sealants do wear over time, but they can be replaced if necessary.

Periodontal Care

Gum disease affects nearly half of all Americans and there are two stages that advance if left untreated. Gingivitis is the first stage, the most common, and can be treated and reversed. Periodontal disease is the second stage. At this stage, the bone that supports your teeth is damaged and allows for debris and bacteria buildup deep between the gums and teeth. If left untreated, the bone can be destroyed leading to loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.

At Smile Society, we can provide deep cleanings that help control gum disease to keep your mouth healthy. If you’re in the West Windsor, East Windsor, Plainsboro or Princeton area, and you’re looking for comprehensive family and preventative care, call to schedule an appointment or visit us today!

Why is Preventive Dental Care Important?

Preventive dental care is the most cost-effective, timely, and minimally invasive way to prevent serious oral health problems like tooth decay and gum disease. By regularly attending dental appointments for checkups and cleanings, we can detect signs of oral health problems early and take action right away. 

Cleanings can also prevent decay and gum disease from forming in the first place by eliminating plaque buildup and protecting your teeth with fluoride treatments or dental sealants. When food particles are left behind, bacterial plaque will feed off them and transform them into acids which attack your enamel and lead to cavities. 

When cavities are left untreated, they can quickly develop into more serious problems such as infection or damage to the tooth’s pulp. Once it has reached this stage, you will need a root canal or an extraction. Tooth loss, even for children with baby teeth, should always be avoided to the best of your ability. 

Prematurely losing baby teeth means that the teeth will shift and lean into the space, preventing the permanent tooth from having a space to come through. Receiving fluoride treatments at the dentist can reverse early-stage tooth decay and only takes a few minutes.

How Often Should I See the Dentist for Preventive Care?

Both adults and children need to visit the dentist at least every 6 months for a routine dental cleaning and checkup. Those with a high risk of developing tooth decay or gum disease may need to visit more frequently, such as every 3 months. 

However, 2 dental visits per year are adequate for most people. Your dentist will be able to tell you how well you’re taking care of your teeth after performing an oral exam and taking x-rays. If any warning signs of decay are present, Dr. Munira Sulaiman or Dr. Mandeep Singh will tell you to keep an eye on them and to maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine. 

Additional dental appointments soon may be discussed if necessary. To schedule your next preventive dental appointment at Smile Society General Dentistry, call (609) 779-2054 Calls on Click or book online with Dr. Munira Sulaiman or Dr. Mandeep Singh.

How to Care for Your Teeth Between Dental Visits?

It’s important to practice good oral hygiene every day all year round, not just when you visit the dentist. To keep your teeth in good health and to prevent plaque buildup and decay, you should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once. 

What many patients neglect to clean when they brush and floss their teeth is their tongue, which harbors a ton of bacteria! At the end of your brushing, give your tongue a few brushes with your toothbrush and toothpaste, or get a specialized tongue scraper.

Flossing once is a day is also necessary to remove food particles from between the teeth that cannot be reached by your toothbrush. Patients with braces or dental work may benefit from using a water flosser rather than relying solely on traditional floss. 

The final aspect of maintaining good oral hygiene revolves around your diet. Getting enough fluoride either through your drinking water, toothpaste, or mouthwash is a good way to protect your teeth from cavities. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet with a focus on vegetables that are high in fiber. Avoid excessive carbohydrates, sugar, acidic drinks, staining foods or drinks, and frequently snacking throughout the day.