Preventive DentistryAt Watermark Dentistry, 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! Dental Cleaning & ExamAt Watermark Dentistry, we recommend cleanings at least once every six months. These cleanings are done during your biannual exams and help to prevent further damage that can be caused by oral bacteria, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. We do this with a variety of specialized tools. Plaque and tartar (hardened plaque that cannot be removed with a toothbrush) are scraped from the surface of your teeth, between your teeth and just below the gumline. After your teeth are scraped clean, we polish them to a brilliant shine. Dental ExamWhile practicing good oral hygiene can certainly help prevent this disease, you also need to stay on top of your professional cleanings with us. We here at Watermark Dentistry strongly recommend that all of our patients schedule regular checkups with cleanings with us every six months. Oral Cancer ScreeningsCancer is a devastating disease that can affect some different areas of your body. Oral cancer is the largest group of cancers that affect the head and neck. It can affect the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, or the back of the mouth near the throat. If not diagnosed and treated early, oral cancer can be fatal. However, the earliest warning signs of oral cancer are not often noticeable. As a result, many of those diagnosed do not receive their diagnosis until the cancer has worsened. Of the thousands diagnosed every year, only just over half live past five years. Watermark Dentistry can aid in the early detection of oral cancer with oral cancer screenings. Dentistry for KidsProfessional dental care is a crucial part of your child's oral health. Be sure to schedule your child's first appointment by the time their first teeth erupt, or before their first birthday. Scheduling regular appointments allow us to monitor the development of their oral health. Developmental problems are easier to treat in the beginning stages. As your child grows older, we can establish a strong foundation for their oral health, one that will ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful teeth. Fluoride TreatmentFluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in many of our foods and beverages. It is also a useful tool in fighting tooth decay. Every day, our teeth lose and gain minerals through the processes of demineralization and remineralization. If the process of demineralization exceeds that of remineralization tooth decay will occur. Professional fluoride treatment allows us to supplement the process of remineralization and prevent potential decay. It can even reverse minor instances of decay. Fluoride treatment is particularly beneficial for patients at a greater risk of tooth decay, such as children, teens, and seniors. Periodontal CareYour 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. SportsguardAt Watermark Dentistry, we understand that accidents happen, especially with children. For this reason, we specialize in several preventive treatments designed to protect your family’s teeth and gums. If you or your child participate in sports or other physical activities, we may recommend a sportsguard! MouthguardA mouthguard is one of the best ways to treat nocturnal bruxism. The plastic appliance will shield your enamel from the pressures of your bite. Your night guard may take some getting used to, but after about a week it will begin to feel normal. Because it is custom-fit, you should not experience any pain or discomfort. If you chose not to wear a night guard, you might be putting yourself at risk for serious complications later down the line. Stress-reduction techniques are also a popular way to reduce the harmful effects of bruxism. Schedule an AppointmentTo learn more about our family dentistry services call (206) 242-5808, and schedule an appointment now! |