Preventive Care for a Healthy Smile

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is about more than just avoiding cavities—it’s about protecting your overall health and preventing bigger dental problems down the road. A strong daily routine, combined with professional cleanings and exams, helps you maintain a healthy smile for life.

Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth. If it’s not removed, it hardens into tartar, leading to decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. Daily brushing and flossing are important, but they can’t remove tartar once it forms. That’s where professional care comes in. Our team is here to help you keep your smile in great shape with preventive treatments tailored to your needs.

Preventive Dental Services

Dental Cleanings

Even with great at-home care, plaque and tartar build up over time. Professional cleanings remove what brushing and flossing can’t, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. Your hygienist will gently remove buildup, polish your teeth, and leave your smile feeling fresh and smooth.

Comprehensive Exams

Routine checkups help catch problems early—before they turn into something more serious. During your exam, we will:

  • Check your gums for gingivitis or signs of periodontal disease
  • Look for tooth decay or damage
  • Take X-rays (if needed) to spot hidden issues like bone loss or infections
  • Screen for oral cancer
  • Assess existing fillings or dental work to ensure everything stays secure

At-Home Care Tips

Brushing & Flossing

Brushing twice a day and flossing daily help control plaque and keep your mouth healthy. Since plaque forms quickly, consistency is key. If you’re unsure about your technique, your hygienist can recommend the best tools and methods to keep your teeth and gums in top shape.

Mouth Rinses

Mouth rinses can help freshen breath and remove food particles, but they’re not a replacement for brushing and flossing. If you have a higher risk of gum disease or cavities, your dentist may suggest a prescription rinse for extra protection.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline creates bacteria that cause inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated.

Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis

  • Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease. Gums may look red, swollen, or bleed when you brush. The good news? A professional cleaning and improved home care can reverse it.
  • Periodontitis: An advanced form of gum disease that damages the bone and tissue around your teeth. Bone loss can’t be reversed, but treatment can stop the disease from progressing and protect your smile.

How Gum Disease Is Treated

  • Professional Cleanings: Regular visits remove plaque and tartar before they cause bigger problems.
  • Scaling & Root Planing: A deeper cleaning to clear bacteria from below the gumline.
  • Medications: Antibiotics or prescription rinses may help reduce bacteria.
  • Ongoing Care: Patients with gum disease often benefit from cleanings every 3–4 months to keep their gums healthy.

Taking a proactive approach to your dental health can help prevent more serious issues in the future. Whether you need a routine checkup or have concerns about your gums, we’re here to help.

What We’re Looking for on a Dental X-Ray

When you come in for a dental cleaning at Elice Dental Care, we often start with an X-ray to check for cavities forming between your teeth. In this video, Dr. Mossad walks through what we’re looking for, what early signs of decay look like, and how we evaluate different layers of the tooth.

Should You Brush or Floss First? Dr. Mossad Weighs In

There’s a lot of debate about whether you should brush or floss first, but what’s actually best for your teeth? In this quick video, Dr. Mossad shares how she approaches her own dental hygiene routine and what she recommends to patients for healthier teeth and gums.

Dr. Mossad’s Most Recommended Dental Care Products

Looking for the best toothpaste, floss, or rinse? Dr. Mossad shares her top dental product recommendations—including options for gum inflammation, tooth sensitivity, and everyday care. Whether you’re building a better routine or just curious what your dentist actually uses, this is a great place to start.

Why a Water Flosser Is Worth Adding to Your Routine

Thinking about getting a water flosser? Dr. Mossad shares why it’s a great addition to your routine, especially if you have crowns, bridges, or other dental work. She also shows you the right way to use it and how it fits alongside traditional flossing.

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