Preventive Dentistry

expert dental care in Richmond, VA

Optimal dental health starts with prevention. At James River Family Dentistry, we don’t want to just treat common dental problems; we want to prevent them from forming in the first place. That’s why we love offering preventative care and educating our patients on maintaining their optimum oral health.

Health & Wellness

During each dental check-up, Dr. Guthrie reviews medical history and provides blood pressure screenings, head and neck/oral cancer screenings, nutritional counseling, smoking cessation and sleep apnea screenings. Also with the periodontal/mouth and body systemic connection, we continually educate patients with diabetes, stroke and heart disease. In addition, xerostomia (dry mouth) is a common side effect of meds, as are other oral conditions that we continuously evaluate and monitor for adjustments as needed.

At James River Family Dentistry, we want each of our patients to have the best oral health possible. We will teach you the proper techniques to brush and floss to reduce plaque buildup and help prevent decay. More adults lose teeth due to periodontal disease than decay. With a daily brushing and flossing routine, it is possible to reverse the inflammation in your gums that can lead to gum disease. We are excited to teach you the proper ways to care for your teeth so your regular dental checkups are a breeze.

Sleep apnea occurs when airflow is blocked during sleep, partially awakening the sleeper. This can lead to heart issues, as well as depression and sleepiness. Symptoms of this condition include gasping while sleeping, loud snoring, waking up with a headache or sore throat, insomnia, forgetfulness and depression.

James River Family Dentistry offers treatment options we believe will get you back to sleeping well and improve your overall quality of life. These devices will assist in opening up your airways, ensuring you uninterrupted sleep. If you believe you, or someone in your home, may be suffering from sleep apnea, contact us today to set up a consultation.

Preventive Dental Care

A dental check-up is necessary to maintain the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. The American Dental Association recommends regular dental visits every 6 months or twice a year. A dental cleaning is important to check for periodontal disease, removal of plaque or tartar and polishing for stain removal. It is important to see a dentist regularly so any dental conditions such as gingivitis can be detected and diagnosed early. Early detection can mitigate the progression of a disease and even reverse it.

Preventative dental care focuses on maintaining your oral health and preventing dental problems before they become more serious and costly to treat. By taking a proactive approach to your dental health, you can:

1. Avoid Dental Problems: Regular check-ups and cleanings can help catch and address issues like cavities and gum disease early, preventing the need for extensive dental work.

2. Save Money: Preventative care is often more cost-effective in the long run than treating advanced dental problems that could have been prevented.

3. Preserve Your Smile: A beautiful, healthy smile is an essential part of your overall well-being. Preventative care helps you maintain your smile’s brightness and functionality.

Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is an FDA-approved clinical treatment for hypersensitivity, tooth decay and cavities. It is a colorless liquid, composed of silver and fluoride, which work together to both strengthen the underlying layers of teeth and to stop present decay from progressing.

This treatment option works for specific cases and does not restore already lost tooth structure. It is intended to decrease sensitivity and to stop cavities from getting bigger. SDF is not a cosmetic solution because the cavities become stained, while the healthy tooth structure remains white.

Our Preventative Dental Services

 

James River Family Dentistry offers a wide range of preventative dental services to help you maintain optimal oral health:

Regular dental check-ups are essential for identifying and addressing any potential issues before they worsen. Our skilled team will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Our hygienists will leave your teeth feeling fresh and clean.

We use advanced dental technology, including digital X-rays, to detect problems that may not be visible to the naked eye. This allows for early intervention.

Early detection of oral cancer can save lives. Our comprehensive screenings are a crucial part of your preventative care.

Dental sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent decay in the grooves and fissures.

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can be applied during your dental visit to reduce the risk of cavities.

Personalized Preventative Care Plans

At James River Family Dentistry, we understand that each patient is unique. We’ll work with you to create a personalized preventative care plan that suits your individual needs and concerns. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain a healthy smile at home.

Request Your Preventative Dental Appointment Today

Don’t wait until dental issues become painful or costly. Invest in your oral health with preventative dental care at James River Family Dentistry. Our friendly and experienced team is here to partner with you in achieving and maintaining a radiant smile. Contact us today to schedule your preventative dental appointment. Your smile deserves the best care, and we’re here to provide it.

Ready To Get Started?

giving you the elevated dental care experience you deserve

Dr. Guthrie and her team are ready to provide you with top-notch dental services within a pristine and expertly managed setting. We aim to ensure that patients of all ages feel at ease and self-assured during their dental visits. Ready to schedule an appointment with JRFD?