Preventive Dentistry Fort Wayne IN
 At Summit Dental Group, we pride ourselves on treating every member of the family. Family dentistry is focused on preventing potential complications, rather than treating them. If you and your family are in need of professional dental services, we can help!
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a routine check-up roughly twice a year. A routine appointment with our doctors will typically include a professional cleaning and a detailed examination of your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. We may also recommend an oral cancer screening for our older patients.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital if you want your teeth to stay strong, functional, and attractive. Apart from regular brushing and flossing, it is also necessary to keep your dental appointments with us regularly. You should visit us at least twice a year to ensure you have excellent dental hygiene and your teeth and surrounding structures are healthy.
Cancer screening can be a frightening scenario for some people, but it should not be. The truth is oral cancer screenings done consistently offer you the opportunity to discover problems early when they can be treated more easily and successfully. If you have questions about our oral cancer screening procedures, then please visit our office so our professional staff can guide you through the procedure.
Professional dental care is a crucial part of your child's oral health. Be sure to schedule your child's first appointment by the time their first teeth erupt, or before their first birthday. Scheduling regular appointments allows us to monitor the development of their oral health. Developmental problems are easier to treat in the beginning stages. As your child grows older, we can establish a strong foundation for their oral health, one that will ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful teeth.
Your periodontal (gum) tissues are just as important as your teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Periodontal disease is the result of an infection in the gum tissues, connective ligaments, and eventually the alveolar bone.
The disease is characterized by gums that are swollen, red, and tend to bleed during brushing and flossing. Luckily, periodontal disease is easy to prevent and treat if it is caught early enough. If we notice signs of advanced periodontal disease, we may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure. The goal is to return your gums to a pink, healthy state.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is more than a simple focus on brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily but also caring for your gums and keeping them healthy. Periodontal diseases can be quite serious and difficult to treat. If you want to encourage gum health and be certain you do not contract a gum infection, good gum hygiene and maintenance are the key, and we can help.
A mouthguard will protect your teeth and prevent dental emergencies. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), we may recommend a nightguard. Many patients with bruxism tend to grind their teeth during sleep. A nightguard acts as a barrier that prevents enamel wear.
Contact sports or sports with moving objects can be a very dangerous environment for your teeth. One extreme tackle or a ball hit into the mouth can do serious, sometimes permanent, damage to the jaw and mouth. If you participate in physical activities that put you at risk for dental trauma or injury, we strongly recommend a custom made sports mouthguard.
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you may benefit from an oral appliance. An oral appliance will keep your jaw in the proper position during sleep. This opens your airway and improves your breathing during sleep. With an oral appliance, you may find yourself feeling more well-rested, alert and happy, thanks to a full night's sleep.
Sleep apnea is a common yet very serious sleep disorder that can affect the quality of your life. The disorder can manifest in children as well and is called pediatric sleep apnea. Considering how disruptive this can be, pediatric sleep apnea needs to be diagnosed and treated right away.
People who suffer from sleep apnea have multiple treatment options from which to choose for relief. However, some solutions are more cost-effective than others. If you are looking for an affordable, effective, and highly beneficial solution there is no better choice than oral appliance therapy.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allows us to move our joint forwards, backward, and side-to-side. Any problems that prevent us from using this joint properly are known as TMD or temporomandibular joint disorders. We provide some treatments designed to alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with the TMJ.
FAQs
What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health through regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and treatments designed to prevent issues like cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. It aims to address potential complications before they arise.
How often should I schedule dental exams and cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends scheduling dental exams and cleanings twice a year, or once every six months. Regular visits help maintain oral health and detect potential issues early.
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a preventive procedure where your dentist examines your mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. Early detection improves treatment success rates.
How can I protect my teeth during sports?
To protect your teeth during sports, use a custom-made sports mouthguard. It provides a comfortable and effective barrier against dental trauma caused by physical contact or moving objects.
What are nightguards and when are they recommended?
Nightguards are custom-made appliances designed to prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep. They protect your enamel, reduce jaw discomfort, and help prevent long-term damage to your teeth and temporomandibular joint.
What treatments are available for sleep apnea?
Treatments for sleep apnea include oral appliances that keep the jaw in the correct position during sleep, opening the airway and improving breathing. This therapy is a cost-effective and non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines.
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