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Westgate Dental

Preventative Dentistry

Preventative Dentistry services offered in West Des Moines, IA

Outstanding preventive dentistry has the power to preserve and protect your smile. At Westgate Dental in West Des Moines, Iowa, Colin Odland, DDS, Ryan Langel, DDS, Jeremy Flinkman, DDS, and the rest of the team offer the very best preventive dentistry services in the region. Booking that essential first visit takes just moments online or by phone, so make today the day you do something great for your smile.

What is preventive dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is the area of dental practice focused on reducing the risk of dental decay, gum disease, and problems with oral soft tissues. It’s the starting point for healthy smiles, and a need that no person should overlook.

Preventive dentistry begins as soon as a child’s first tooth peeks through, and continues through adulthood and into the later phases of life. Partnering with an outstanding dental team is the best way to ensure you get the preventive dentistry services you need to thrive. 

What role do dental check-ups and dental cleanings play in preventive dentistry?

Routine dental exams are the foundation of preventive dentistry. Coming in to see your dentist twice a year provides them with the chance to assess your teeth and gums to look for signs of dental decay or gum disease. 

Catching problems in the early stages allows for early intervention, often improving the chance of positive outcomes. Dental exams also check for tissue abnormalities that can indicate serious issues like oral cancer. 

State-of-the-art technology enhances dental exams. Westgate Dental offers intraoral scanning and digital X-rays to learn more about your teeth and bone tissue. 

Professional cleanings take place during your dental exam visits. Having a professional clean your teeth ensures removal of every trace of plaque and tartar. You also walk out with that sleek, smooth finish that most people associate with professional cleanings.   

What are some preventive dentistry techniques I can use at home?

During your dental exams, feel free to ask questions about how you can boost your at-home dental hygiene routines. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush helps remove plaque before it has a chance to harden into tartar. 

Flossing daily does the same for the spaces between teeth, removing plaque and bacteria all the way to the gum line. You can use string floss or a handle flosser. 

Your dentist is happy to discuss which hygiene tools offer the best fit for your needs and budget. You can even get a professional tutorial on brushing and flossing techniques. When you’re ready to begin, call the office to schedule a visit, or book online in just a few clicks.