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Preventive Dentistry Houston, TX
Preventive Dentistry in Houston provided by Dr. Frank Dunlap
at Frank Dunlap, DDS
 At Frank Dunlap, DDS, we pride ourselves on treating every member of the family. Preventive dentistry is focused on preventing potential complications, rather than treating them. If you and your family are in need of professional dental services, we can help!
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Preventive Services On This Page:
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a routine check-up up roughly twice a year. A routine appointment with our doctors will typically include a professional cleaning and a detailed examination of your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. We may also recommend an oral cancer screening for our older patients.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital if you want your teeth to stay strong, functional, and attractive. Apart from regular brushing and flossing, it is also necessary to keep your dental appointments with us regularly. You should visit us at least twice a year for a professional cleaning to ensure you have excellent dental hygiene and your teeth and surrounding structures are healthy.
Dental sealants are a highly effective preventive measure used to protect teeth from decay. These thin, protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where decay often starts. Sealants create a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that shields enamel from plaque and acids, making them an excellent choice for children and adults alike.
Gum disease treatment involves various procedures aimed at stopping the progression of periodontal disease and restoring healthy gums. Treatments can range from deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to more advanced procedures, depending on the severity of the condition. Early intervention is key to preventing tooth loss and maintaining overall oral health.
Your periodontal (gum) tissues are just as important as your teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Periodontal disease is the result of an infection in the gum tissues, connective ligaments, and eventually the alveolar bone.
The disease is characterized by gums that are swollen, red, and tend to bleed during brushing and flossing. Luckily, periodontal disease is easy to prevent and treat if it is caught early enough. If we notice signs of advanced periodontal disease, we may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure. The goal is to return your gums to a pink, healthy state.
Periodontal maintenance is an ongoing care program designed to prevent the recurrence of gum disease after initial treatment. This involves regular, scheduled visits for deep cleanings, monitoring gum health, and maintaining the progress achieved through earlier treatments. Consistent periodontal maintenance is crucial for keeping gums healthy and preventing further issues.
Cancer screening can be a frightening scenario for some people, but it should not be. The truth is oral cancer screenings done consistently offer you the opportunity to discover problems early when they can be treated more easily and successfully. If you have questions about our oral cancer screening procedures, then please visit our office so our professional staff can guide you through the procedure.
A mouthguard will protect your teeth and prevent dental emergencies. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), we may recommend a night guard. Many patients with bruxism tend to grind their teeth during sleep. A night guard acts as a barrier that prevents enamel wear.
Contact sports or sports with moving objects can be a very dangerous environment for your teeth. One extreme tackle or a ball hit into the mouth can do serious, sometimes permanent, damage to the jaw and mouth. If you participate in physical activities that put you at risk for dental trauma or injury, we strongly recommend a custom made sports mouthguard.
At Frank Dunlap, DDS, our fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel and prevent decay. Applied in a quick, painless procedure, fluoride is essential for maintaining optimal oral health, particularly for those at risk of cavities or tooth sensitivity.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allows us to move our joint forwards, backward, and side-to-side. Any problems that prevent us from using this joint properly are known as TMD or temporomandibular joint disorders. We provide some treatments designed to alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with the TMJ.
Sleep apnea treatment in dentistry focuses on managing and alleviating the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Treatment options may include custom-made oral appliances that help keep the airway open. These appliances are designed to improve breathing, reduce snoring, and enhance overall sleep quality.
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FAQs
What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry focuses on protecting your teeth and gums before serious dental problems develop. It includes routine exams, professional cleanings, digital imaging when needed, fluoride treatments, oral hygiene guidance, and early detection of concerns such as cavities or gum disease.
Why are regular dental checkups important?
Regular dental checkups allow our dentists to monitor your oral health, find small problems early, and recommend care before issues become more complex. At Frank Dunlap, DDS, preventive visits also give our dental team a chance to remove plaque and tartar, check your gums, and help you maintain a healthy smile.
How often should I schedule preventive dental visits?
Many patients benefit from preventive dental visits about every six months, but some people may need a different schedule based on gum health, cavity risk, medical history, or existing dental work. Our dental team can recommend a visit frequency that supports your long-term oral health.
What can I do at home to prevent cavities and gum disease?
At home, brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and drink plenty of water. Consistent home care, combined with routine visits at Frank Dunlap, DDS, can help reduce plaque buildup and lower your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Are dental sealants part of preventive dentistry?
Yes, dental sealants are a preventive treatment that can help protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth from food particles and bacteria. Sealants are often recommended for children and teens, but some adults may also benefit depending on the shape of their teeth and their risk for cavities.
Can preventive dentistry help avoid dental emergencies?
Preventive dentistry can lower the risk of certain dental emergencies by identifying decay, cracks, gum problems, or bite issues before they worsen. While not every emergency can be prevented, routine exams and cleanings give our dentists the opportunity to address concerns early and help protect your smile. |
