
Apr
Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond daily brushing and flossing. Regular preventive dental visits are crucial for keeping your teeth and gums in shape. At Gentle Dental Care in Menomonie, Wisconsin, and Arkansaw, Wisconsin, Dr. Emily Andre and her dedicated team are committed to helping patients avoid common dental health issues through comprehensive preventive dental services, including checkups and cleanings. By staying proactive with your dental care, you can prevent or detect problems before they become costly and painful. Here are the top five dental health problems you can easily avoid with routine preventive dental visits.
Cavities, or dental caries, are among the most common oral health issues. They appear when plaque accumulation causes enamel erosion, which results in tiny holes in the teeth. Regular dental checkups help detect early signs of decay before they worsen. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone can’t eliminate, significantly reducing the risk of cavities. Fluoride treatments and sealants your dentist provides can further protect your teeth from decay.
Periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, presents itself in its early stages as gingivitis. This early stage of gum disease is characterized by swollen and red gums that bleed when you brush or floss. When gingivitis goes untreated, it will escalate to periodontitis. At this stage, you are in danger of gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Preventive dental visits allow your dentist to assess your gum health and remove plaque buildup contributing to gum disease. Early detection and treatment can reverse gingivitis and prevent serious complications.
Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not detected early. During a routine dental exam, Dr. Emily Andre screens for signs of oral cancer, such as unusual sores, lumps, or discoloration in the mouth. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes, making preventive dental visits critical in safeguarding your overall health.
Many people experience tooth sensitivity, often caused by enamel erosion, gum recession, or untreated cavities. If left unaddressed, sensitivity can lead to more serious issues, including severe pain and the need for restorative treatments. Regular dental checkups help identify the underlying cause of sensitivity and allow your dentist to provide treatments such as fluoride applications or dental bonding to strengthen and protect your teeth.
Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can indicate underlying dental problems such as gum disease, cavities, or bacterial buildup on the tongue. Routine dental visits help identify and treat the root cause of bad breath. Professional cleanings remove odor-causing plaque, while personalized oral hygiene recommendations ensure fresher breath and better oral health.
Don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a major dental problem. At Gentle Dental Care in Menomonie, Wisconsin – (715) 600-9004, and Arkansaw, Wisconsin – (715) 230-3838, Dr. Emily Andre and her team are dedicated to providing top-quality preventive dental services to keep your smile healthy. Schedule your appointment today by calling the respective location. Protect your smile with regular dental checkups and experience the benefits of proactive dental care!
Dr. Emily Andre, DMD, NMD, IBDM, is a trusted practitioner at Gentle Dental Care. A Durand, Wisconsin native, she completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and earned her DMD from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry. Dr. Andre specializes in mercury-free dental practices, ensuring a safe, toxic-free environment for her patients. Her commitment to high standards and patient safety underscores her reliability and expertise in dental care. Dr. Andre is eager to provide exceptional care and build lasting relationships with the Menomonie community.
Dr. Frankie Thatcher, DDS, is a dedicated practitioner at Gentle Dental Care. Hailing from Glenwood City, WI, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Concordia University St. Paul and her DDS from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. While in dental school, Dr. Thatcher was actively involved in student groups and served as vice president of her class. Having been a patient of Dr. Andre for years and shadowing her, Dr. Thatcher chose Gentle Dental Care for its exceptional standards. You can trust Dr. Thatcher to provide expert and compassionate dental care.