Preventive Dentistry – Rio Rancho, NM

Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings

The main goal of a dental checkup is to check the teeth and gums for signs of damage, decay, or disease. We may also take X-rays to examine your jawbone and other hidden oral structures. If any problems are found, we’ll explain our findings to you and outline your options for treatment. Additionally, we’ll also look for any plaque or tartar buildup in your mouth so that we can remove it before it causes lasting harm.

 

Nightguards for Bruxism

Bruxism is another word for unconscious clenching and grinding of the teeth. This usually happens at night when you’re not aware of it, and it can significantly wear down your teeth if you’re not proactive about stopping it. If we find any signs of bruxism during your checkup, we may recommend getting a nightguard to keep your teeth safe while you sleep. The nightguards we provide are custom fitted to your specific smile, so they’re much more comfortable than an appliance you might find at the store.

 

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is often added to public drinking water and toothpaste. It helps keep the tooth enamel solid, protecting it from decay. We may recommend a fluoride treatment for certain patients if we feel that their risk for cavities is unusually high. The process is completely painless and can be done in a matter of minutes, and yet your teeth will enjoy the benefits for many months to come.

 

Oral Cancer Screenings

While we’re examining your mouth, we may find unusual symptoms such as white patches or an unusual lump or growth. These symptoms are often the result of oral cancer, and if that’s the case, you’ll need to act fast; the survival rate for cancers of the mouth and throat is significantly higher for patients that are treated during the early stages of the disease. If we think you might have oral cancer, we’ll help you make the necessary arrangements for a biopsy so that you can be properly diagnosed.