An ounce of prevention can mean less visits to the dentist Instead of waiting until treatment is needed to relieve pain, patients are encouraged to seek dental treatment to prevent future dental problems. Fixing dental problems can require extensive treatment. If more people visited the dentist for regular check-ups every six months, individuals would benefit greatly.
Preventive care is just that, preventing tooth decay, gum disease and the loss of teeth.
Regular check-ups, fluoride treatments and the use of sealants are all considered part of preventive care. As well, preventive care usually only takes one visit. Restorative treatment to correct dental problems may take several appointments to complete the required procedures. Preventive care procedures maintain the patient's level of oral health or improves it. Having sealants placed on children's molars is faster, easier and less costly than putting in fillings.