Taking care of your teeth is important to stay healthy and avoid dental problems. But what kind of care is right for you: preventive or restorative? Restorative dental care in Calgary can help people who need to fix dental issues, while preventive care keeps your teeth and gums healthy before problems develop. Let’s break down the difference between these two types of care so you know when to seek each type.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
What we do in preventive dentistry is to make sure that the mouth area is clean and healthy so that it will not be prone to the occurrence of problems such as tooth decay or gum disease. Dentists achieve this through a professional dental check-up where they polish your teeth, examine them for signs of disease and or offer advice on how you can maintain your teeth and oral health. Common preventive care includes:
- Regular cleanings to remove plaque
- Fluoride treatments to make teeth stronger
- Dental sealants, a thin coating on back teeth to prevent decay
- X-rays to catch any hidden issues early
With preventive care, you can avoid more costly and complicated treatments later on. Regular dentist visits for check ups and cleanings can help catch problems before they get worse.
When to Choose Preventive Care
Preventive care is for everyone, no matter your age. You might need it more if you:
- Have plaque build up or sensitive teeth
- Experience bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Notice the ongoing bad breath
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Reconstructive dentistry helps solve issues that currently exist within your teeth and gums. This might include a cavity, a broken tooth even a missing tooth, or any other form of dental problem. The objectives of restorative care are to restore the teeth to health and the ability to perform desired functions. Some basic restorative treatments include:
- Fillings to treat cavities
- Crowns to cover and protect damaged teeth
- Bridges or dentures to replace missing teeth
- Root canals for infected or damaged tooth roots
These basic restorative dental treatments help you chew, speak, and smile normally. They are designed to make your teeth healthy and strong again.
Cosmetic Restorative Options
Some restorative treatments also improve the look of your teeth. For instance, cosmetic dental crowns can make a damaged tooth look natural again, improving both appearance and function. Cosmetic restorations can be a great choice if you want a healthier and better-looking smile.
Preventive vs. Restorative Dentistry: What’s the Difference?
Preventive and restorative dentistry each serve a different purpose:
- Preventive Dentistry: Aims to keep your teeth healthy and stop problems before they start.
- Restorative Dentistry: Fixes dental problems that already exist, like cavities or broken teeth.
When to Pick Each Type of Care
If you have no complaints currently, then a preventive treatment may suffice for you. But if you find that you have any pain, sensitivity, or tooth decay then you can go and seek restoration treatment. Talk with a dentist to figure out which type of care is right for you.
Combining Preventive and Restorative Dentistry
Both preventive and restorative dentistry are important for keeping a healthy smile. Regular preventive care reduces the chances you’ll need restorative treatments later. But if you do need restorative care, it will help restore both health and appearance. The benefits of combining both include:
- Healthier teeth and gums
- Fewer cavities and dental problems
- Lower long-term costs for dental care
- A more natural, confident smile
Choose the Right Dental Care for Your Needs
Knowing when to get preventive or restorative care is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Preventive care helps you avoid issues, while restorative care fixes any problems that come up. At Inglewood Family Dental, our experienced dentist in Calgary provides both types of care to keep your smile healthy and bright.
Take the Next Step for Your Smile! Contact Inglewood Family Dental to set up your next appointment and keep your teeth at their best.
