Damon R. Johnson, DDS answers common questions regarding preventative dental care and explains why oral hygiene is vital to overall health.
Q: What is preventative dentistry?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: This is the area of dentistry that allows dentists to identify and avert problems before they require costly (and painful) treatment.
Q: What does it consist of?
Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: First and foremost, patient education. This includes providing information on proper dental care and nutrition. We also educate our patients on the benefits of prophylaxis – preventative care, cleanings, and exams.
Q: Why are regular cleanings important?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Even patients who brush regularly need twice-yearly cleanings to remove plaque build-up. Regular exams also allow us to check for cavities and damage to teeth and gums.
Q: What causes gum disease?
Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Heavy deposits of plaque along the gum line cause inflammation. This painful, red, and swollen condition is gum disease and it has been linked to other health concerns, including diabetes.
Q: What is the difference between gingivitis and gum disease?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Gingivitis is early-stage periodontal (gum) disease. At this stage, bacteria begins to attack the soft tissue of the gums.
Q: Is gum disease reversible?
Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: If caught early enough, yes. Otherwise, we must look into restorative dental procedures to get the mouth back to a pre-diseased state.
Q: How has modern technology made preventative dentistry easier?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Medical advancements, such as 3D x-rays and powerful microscopes, allow for a better view and consequently a more thorough analysis of a patient’s dental state, meaning that we can treat problems sooner.
Q: How do sealants play a role in oral health?
Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Sealants allow us to cover teeth at-risk for dental caries, also known as cavities, with a special formula to prevent further decay.
Q: Where are sealants used?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Sealants are effective on back teeth, which tend to have grooves that collect debris and breed bacteria.
Q: What is bruxism?
Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Most people know this as teeth grinding. Bruxism is a common issue that can cause a host of health problems such as migraine headache and tooth damage.
Q: How can a dentist help prevent bruxism?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: We can’t stop a patient from the action of grinding/clenching but we do offer custom night guards to eliminate damage to teeth and ease the tension on muscles around the mouth.
Q: Can mouth guards help athletes on the field?
Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Yes, a well-fitting mouth guard helps athletes improve their balance. More importantly, they work to prevent or minimize facial trauma.
Q: Are all mouthguards the same?
Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: No, the best mouth guard is a custom-fitted piece. At Damon R. Johnson, DDS Dental Excellence, we use the Under Armour® Armour BiteTM. This mouthpiece has been praised by both athletes and coaches. For anyone who plays sports, mouth guards are a must.