At Burlington Family Dental, we believe that education is the foundation of lifelong oral health. While many patients only visit the dentist when experiencing pain or discomfort, the best way to protect your smile—and your overall health—is through preventive dental care. Our goal is to help you understand what preventive care entails, why it’s essential, and how you can maintain excellent oral health through both professional services and daily at-home habits.
Why Preventive Dental Care Matters?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), routine dental checkups and cleanings can prevent the majority of oral health problems before they even begin. Common issues like cavities, gum disease, enamel erosion, and oral infections often develop silently and may not show symptoms until they are in advanced stages.
Fun Fact: Dental cavities are the most common chronic disease in both children and adults, even more common than asthma. CDC – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
By focusing on prevention, you can avoid painful treatments, higher dental expenses, and even systemic health complications.
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dental care that focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems before they occur. It includes regular visits to your dentist for exams, cleanings, and other proactive treatments, as well as education on proper home care techniques.
At Burlington Family Dental, our preventive dental care services are designed for patients of all ages—from children experiencing their first visit to seniors needing regular maintenance. We utilize state-of-the-art technology to identify issues early and provide personalized plans tailored to your specific dental needs.
What’s Included in Preventive Dental Services?
Preventive dentistry encompasses a wide range of services designed to maintain oral health and prevent dental problems. While daily brushing and flossing are critical components of oral hygiene, professional preventive care goes beyond at-home habits to provide comprehensive protection for your teeth and gums.
At Burlington Family Dental in Burlington, NJ, we offer a full suite of preventive services tailored to patients of all ages. These services are designed to catch problems early, strengthen your teeth, and help you maintain a healthy smile for life. Here’s a closer look at the key components of preventive dental care:
1. Dental Exams & Digital X-rays
Routine dental exams form the foundation of preventive care at Burlington Family Dental. During each visit, Dr. Sara Najafi and our experienced team examine your teeth, gums, and soft tissues for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other potential issues.
We also use low-radiation digital X-rays to see below the surface, identifying decay between teeth, bone loss, or infections early on, before they become painful or expensive to treat. Digital X-rays provide a clearer picture with reduced radiation exposure compared to traditional methods, ensuring a safer and more precise diagnosis.
2. Professional Teeth Cleanings
No matter how well you brush and floss at home, plaque and tartar can still accumulate, especially in hard-to-reach areas. That’s where our professional dental cleanings come in.
Our friendly hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque, tartar, and stains, helping prevent cavities and gum disease. We recommend cleanings every six months to keep your mouth fresh and healthy, and your smile sparkling.
3. Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a powerful mineral that helps remineralize tooth enamel and prevent decay. At Burlington Family Dental, we offer fluoride treatments for both children and adults as part of our regular preventive care visits.
These treatments are especially beneficial for patients at a higher risk of cavities or enamel erosion. The process is fast, painless, and offers long-lasting protection for your teeth.
4. Dental Sealants
Back teeth (molars) have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria, making them especially prone to cavities. That’s why we recommend dental sealants, especially for children and teens.
Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars. At Burlington Family Dental, this quick and non-invasive procedure provides added protection that can last for years. Adults with deep grooves may also benefit from this treatment.
5. Gum Disease Screenings
Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, often developing silently. During your preventive visit, we’ll perform a thorough gum disease screening to check for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or gum recession.
If gingivitis is caught early, it can often be reversed with improved hygiene and routine dental cleanings. More advanced gum issues may require a personalized periodontal treatment plan, which we can also provide in-office.
6. Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but it’s especially important to monitor if you have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or a family history of cancer. At Burlington Family Dental, we include oral cancer screenings as part of your routine checkup.
These quick and painless exams help detect unusual lesions or tissue changes early, when treatment is most effective. It’s one more way we prioritize not just your smile, but your overall health.
Dental Care Is Whole-Body Self-Care
Maintaining good oral health isn’t just about preventing cavities or achieving a brighter smile—it’s an essential part of protecting your entire body. Growing evidence shows that oral hygiene plays a crucial role in your overall health, with poor dental care linked to a wide range of serious medical conditions.
The Mouth–Body Connection
The mouth is a window into the health of the body. — Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org)
Oral health is closely linked to overall health. When dental problems go untreated, harmful bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and potentially contributing to issues such as:
Heart Disease
Bacteria from gum infections may travel through the bloodstream and contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries.
Diabetes Complications
Gum disease can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels, creating a harmful feedback loop.
Respiratory Infections
Inhaling bacteria from the mouth can lead to lung infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Pregnancy Risks
Poor dental health has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight.
Preventive Dental Care for Families
At Burlington Family Dental, we welcome patients of all ages and strive to create a comfortable, family-friendly environment where everyone feels at home. Preventive care is not one-size-fits-all—it evolves throughout each stage of life.
Starting Early: Preventive Care for Children
Preventive dental care begins with your child’s first dental visit—ideally by their first birthday. Early visits help establish positive habits, monitor development, and reduce dental anxiety as children grow. Services such as fluoride treatments, sealants, and gentle cleanings are crucial for protecting developing teeth.
Maintaining Health: Preventive Care for Adults
For adults, regular preventive visits are crucial for preserving natural teeth, detecting issues early, and avoiding costly or invasive procedures later on. Routine exams and cleanings help manage oral health and support overall wellness, especially for those with busy lifestyles or chronic conditions.
Ongoing Support: Preventive Care for Seniors
Seniors face unique oral health challenges, including tooth loss, gum recession, and dry mouth, which are often caused by medications or the natural aging process. Preventive dental care helps maintain function, comfort, and confidence in their smile while detecting any problems before they progress.
Our experienced and compassionate team at Burlington Family Dental tailors preventive care to fit the specific needs of each family member, ensuring a healthy smile at every age.
5 Simple Tips for At-Home Dental Care
While professional preventive care is essential, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is equally important. By adopting these dentist-approved habits, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy between dental visits:
Brush Twice a Day Using Fluoride Toothpaste
Brushing for two minutes, twice a day, is one of the most effective ways to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces.
Floss Daily to Clean Between Teeth and Under the Gumline
Flossing removes food particles and plaque from areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. Make flossing a daily habit, ideally before brushing at night, to keep your gums healthy and prevent cavities between teeth.
Replace Your Toothbrush Every 3 to 4 Months
Over time, toothbrush bristles become frayed and less effective at cleaning your teeth. Replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head, if using an electric toothbrush) every three to four months or sooner if the bristles show signs of wear.
Drink Water Throughout the Day to Rinse Away Food and Bacteria
Staying hydrated helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Drinking water also stimulates saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth by neutralizing acids and aiding in digestion.
Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks, Especially Sticky or Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods, such as candy, soda, and citrus fruits, can erode enamel and promote cavity formation. Opt for tooth-friendly snacks like fresh fruits, vegetables, or cheese, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming foods that are high in sugar or acid.
Consistency is key! Preventive habits practiced daily can greatly reduce your risk of needing major dental work.
How Insurance Supports Preventive Dental Care?
Most dental insurance plans prioritize prevention. Routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays are typically covered at little or no cost under PPO plans. At Burlington Family Dental, we help verify your benefits, explain coverage, and ensure you get the most out of your plan.
No insurance? We’ve got you covered. Ask about our in-house Dental Membership Plan and new patient specials, including dental coupons that make high-quality care more affordable and stress-free..
When to Visit Your Dentist?
The general recommendation is to visit your dentist at least twice a year. However, some patients may need more frequent checkups due to:
- History of gum disease
- Chronic conditions like diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Ongoing orthodontic treatment
We tailor your care schedule based on your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry
What happens during a preventive dental visit?
You’ll receive a dental cleaning, comprehensive oral exam, and possibly X-rays. Your dentist will discuss any findings and recommend next steps.
Can preventive care reverse dental problems?
In the early stages, yes. Fluoride can remineralize enamel, and improved hygiene can reverse gingivitis. Advanced issues may need restorative treatment.
Do children really need dental visits?
Absolutely! Early care sets the foundation for healthy habits and development.
Is preventive dentistry expensive?
It’s often the most cost-effective dental care. By catching issues early, you avoid the need for complex and costly treatments later.
