Preventative Care at Tanty Family Dentistry

Routine Checkups Improve Dental Health

Scheduling a regular visit with Tanty Family Dental, even if you don't have a problem, is key to maintaining good oral health and having a great smile. Having checkups and cleanings every six months will improve not just your oral health but your overall health as well. During each visit, we will clean your teeth and check for cavities. Your dentist may also recommend that you get x-rays taken to further examine your teeth and gums for potential disease or decay. Fluoride treatments may also be included in your regular checkup if requested. With a team of caring, competent individuals on hand, we'll ensure your preventative dentistry visits go smoothly and comfortably every time.

Adult dental cleanings

As you get older, it becomes more difficult to maintain dental health. Fillings that were placed years ago may start to break down, some prescription medications can cause dry mouth which makes teeth more prone to decay. At Tanty Family Dental we understand it can be frustrating to experience more frequent dental issues as you age. We take pride in offering preventative teeth cleanings to get ahead of and help prevent dental emergencies. When you visit for a routine cleaning, comfort is always our first priority, you'll receive no judgment, and you'll walk away with an overall understanding of your current dental health and home care tips to maintain your oral health between checkups.

Pediatric dental cleanings

Setting a healthy standard for dental care is the first step in ensuring your child maintains the best oral health possible. Parents often ask when they should schedule their child's first dental visit. Typically, your child should begin to visit the dentist around two years of age to establish routine and familiarity with the dental chair. It is important to avoid any fear-inducing commentary prior to the visit so your child is most comfortable during the visit and willing to participate in their own healthcare. Building a positive dental routine at a young age is crucial for maintaining oral health over a lifetime and it starts with regular dental cleanings at our comfortable dental clinic. Both children and adults can benefit from modern dental techniques that make any dental procedure more comfortable.

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Contact our staff for more about our preventative dentistry treatments throughout Waukesha County including Waukesha, New Berlin, Pewaukee, Brookfield & Wales.

What Routine Dental Exams Detect

Oral health exams are recommended every 6-12 months to assess the overall oral health of an individual. Most conditions are preventable, especially if they’re detected and treated in their early stages. Some of the most common diseases that impact oral health include cavities (tooth decay), gum disease (periodontitis) and oral cancer.

Gum disease (periodontitis)

Severe cases of periodontitis have been estimated to affect 14% of the adult population worldwide. That's more than 1 billion people! Gum disease occurs from infection and inflammation of the gums and bones that support the teeth. If you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, a weakened immune system, or poor oral hygiene, you may be at an increased risk for periodontal disease. Your bones could deteriorate and gums can become infected if left untreated.

During your routine dental examination, your general dentist will examine your gums and note any signs of inflammation. With a tiny ruler, they will check and measure for pockets around the teeth. You may also need x-rays to determine if there is bone loss.

Tooth decay (Dental caries)

Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases affecting oral health with more than 90% of adults experiencing at least one in their lifetime. They are caused by a breakdown of tooth enamel from plaque that collects on teeth. If untreated, tooth decay can lead to abscesses under the gums which can spread to other parts of the body causing fatalities.

Your dentist will examine your teeth for discoloration, holes or damage to your enamel. They will also look for the three types of cavities: smooth surface, pit and fissure or root. If your dentist takes x-rays during your exam, they will be able to see the nerve inside the tooth pulp. If you have dark areas on your teeth, you may have a cavity.