Preventive Care FAQ

Preventive care is the cornerstone of your oral health, and you should visit our dentists regularly to receive cleanings and exams. Please review our FAQ page to learn more about preventive dentistry in Redwood City, California, and call Redwood Dental Inc. at 650-369-9074 if you have further questions or to make an appointment with Dr. Vincent Leung or Dr. Norman Chang.

What is preventive dentistry?

Preventive dentistry includes all dental care that is provided to help you avoid developing tooth decay, gum disease or other dental problems. Preventive treatments are intended to keep your mouth healthy so that you can retain your natural teeth and avoid the need for more extensive and invasive treatments to regain your oral health and smile.

Why do I need preventive care?

Preventive care is key to maintaining your natural teeth throughout your life, and to avoiding a number of problems which could impact your oral and overall health. The greater care you take to protect your teeth and smile, the greater your chances of avoiding tooth loss and other issues. Preventive care also helps ensure that if any problems do develop, they are diagnosed and treated promptly before any significant damage can occur.

Why is brushing and flossing important?

Brushing and flossing help keep your teeth clean and prevent problems such as cavities and gum disease by removing harmful bacteria and plaque from your mouth. We recommend brushing at least twice a day – ideally you should brush after every meal and before bed. We also recommend that you floss daily to clean in between your teeth.

What happens at a dental checkup?

A dental checkup consists of a cleaning and exam. Our dentists will:

• Clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar (also called calculus)
• Floss and polish your teeth
• Examine your teeth and supporting structures for signs of developing problems
• Take any necessary X-rays to further examine your mouth

How often should I visit my dentist?

You should visit the dentist every six months for routine dental cleanings and exams. Depending on your individual needs, a more frequent schedule of visits may be recommended.

What treatments does preventive care include?

Preventive care includes:

• Home care (brushing and flossing)
• Dental cleanings and exams
• Dental sealants and fluoride treatment

Our dentists may also check oral appliances and dental restorations to ensure they are in good condition, discuss your diet and other oral habits with you, or recommend additional oral health products or hygiene aids for your use.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with our dentists, give us a call today!