People sometimes believe that tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease are simply a part of life. They don’t have to be! Our family dental practice emphasizes prevention, meaning we partner with our patients to prevent common dental problems. Our family dentist and our hygienists can help you maintain your smile.
Preventative Dentistry Services
Dental Cleanings & Exams
Dental cleanings and exams, usually done twice yearly, reinforces good oral hygiene practices, removes plaque and tartar that causes come disease and cavities. Dr. Hallie believes in the X-ray principle called ALARA: As Low As Reasonably Achievable. When taking X-rays, we take care that you and your family are exposed to the least amount of radiation possible.
Cancer Screenings
The very most important job a dentist has is screening for oral cancer. Dr. Hallie partnered with the Mayo Clinic and worked intimately in treating patients who were undergoing treatment for oral cancer. Actively taking the time to listen to patients’ symptoms and pay attention to their story’s details is so important as a provider. Sometimes the medical conditions we find are not a tooth or mouth-related at all but can be life-saving.
Sealants
Some people have back teeth with high peaks and low valleys. While this is great for the function of chewing, it can make getting a cavity all too easy even in the best of brushers. Sealants block those valleys and shield the vulnerable part of the tooth, making it much more cavity resistant.
Fluoride
Dr. Hallie believes there are a time and place for fluoride. Dr. Hallie provides a cavity risk assessment to each person and recommends fluoride based on each individual’s needs. Fluoride may be recommended if you:
- have had a cavity in the last six months
- have dry mouth, a common side effect from mediations
- have a history of chemotherapy or head and neck radiation therapy
Nightguards
Many patients have worn teeth due to acid erosion or clenching or grinding. Often, patients are unaware of their habits because they are subconscious or done while they are sleeping. Patients with large fillings at risk of fracturing teeth are also good candidates for a mouth guard to protect their teeth.
Patients who have had veneers or cosmetic dentistry may choose to wear a guard or clear aligner to protect the investment they have made in their mouths.
Sports Guards
Bend is an incredibly active community! We often see chipped teeth or even teeth that have been ‘knocked out,’ which is an easily preventable condition. The sports scene locally with the most injuries have been:
- skateboarding
- snowboarding
- co-ed softball
- ice-hockey
- rock-climbing
- slack-lining
Dental Homecare
We love to talk about oral health! Whether it’s the best way to brush, different kinds of toothpaste, how to floss properly, nutrition, whatever you may be wanting to ask, we have the answer! (and if we don’t, we will find it!) So ask away!