We often take healthy gums and teeth for granted until we feel the early signs of an impending cavity, like heightened sensitivity or toothache. But is there a way to prevent cavity buildup, or should we rely on restorative dentistry to repair if not improve our smiles? In this article, we’ll discuss the key differences between preventive and restorative dentistry, so you can make informed dental decisions to help you achieve your best smile.

Taking the initiative: preventive dentistry as proactive dental care.

As the name suggests, preventive dentistry aims to prevent the development of dental issues by maintaining optimal oral health through routine oral care, thus minimizing the risk of future oral concerns. Some key measures that fall under preventive dentistry include:

Regular dental checkups and cleaning. One of the essentials of preventive dentistry is committing to a regular dental checkup. Fairfield dentists and other dental offices are always open and welcoming to their patients, encouraging them to show up during their appointments so they can identify problems early on. The thing about cavities and gum diseases is that they develop unknowingly; it’s only through a dentist’s trained eyes and skills that they can see through them and treat them accordingly. Professional dental cleaning is also helpful since it eradicates tartar and plaque buildup which is harmful if left untouched.

Oral hygiene education. Dentists also educate us on how to apply proper brushing and flossing techniques so we can religiously practice these at home to maintain the longevity of our healthy smile. Additionally, dentists also recommend the right oral hygiene products that are fit for our condition, avoiding harsh chemicals or inappropriate toothbrushes.

Fluoride treatments. One of the best ways to strengthen tooth enamel is by undergoing fluoride treatments. You can request this from your dentist so that your teeth are more resistant to acid attacks, lowering the chances of cavity development.

Restorative dentistry: repairing and restoring damaged teeth.

You can still achieve a healthy smile through restorative dentistry for patients with damaged teeth. By addressing the existing dental problems, you can achieve optimal oral health and maintain it through practicing consistent oral care. Some treatments that fall under restorative dentistry include:

Dental implants. For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are the recommended treatment. An artificial tooth is surgically implanted on the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for dentures or crowns.

Fillings. When you have cavities, a portion of your tooth is already rotten, but this can be repaired and replaced with fillings, such as amalgam or composite resin.

Crowns. For teeth that are damaged, crowns are placed on top of them to restore their strength and appearance.

Root canals. At the core of your tooth is the tooth pulp, where all the nerves and connective tissues are located. If the tooth pulp is infected, a patient may need to undergo extraction, but another method that can save the tooth is through root canals—removing the infected tooth pulp.

Both preventive and restorative dentistry are crucial in maintaining optimal oral care, but preventive dentistry is highlighted to lessen the need to undergo restorative treatments.