Preventative dental care is the foundation for long-term oral health. Routine visits to your Fuller Dental dentist allow us to monitor your oral health and look for the early signs of a developing dental problem. Preventative care is one of the dental services that Fuller Dental provides patients to help them avoid common dental problems.
From tooth decay to systemic disease, addressing problems early often results in the best long-term result and the chance for conservative treatment to be effective.
Developing long-term relationships is one of the most important aspects of our practice – we treat our patients as members of our own families. That starts with educating our patients on the importance of general dental care.
What to Expect
When you visit our Burlington, NC dentist office, you’ll have one-on-one time with one of our dentists to discuss your dental concerns and smile goals. They will perform a comprehensive examination to look for underlying problems and take time to explain the various treatment options that are available to you.
During your routine visit, you can expect:
- A thorough dental exam
- X-rays and diagnostics as needed
- A dental cleaning
- Fluoride treatment, if necessary
- Screenings for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other early oral signs of health concerns
Preventative dental care treatments we provide:
We will also offer personalized oral hygiene advice for keeping your smile looking good and feeling great between visits to our Burlington dentist office.
Most routine preventative visits take approximately one hour. We recommend that patients of all ages come in twice a year for routine dental care. Maintaining a healthy smile is important to your overall physical health and well-being. Your oral health can impact your physical health in many ways and your confidence in your appearance.
Our team considers themselves partners in your healthcare, taking the time to get to know you and understand your unique risk factors for many diseases or conditions. From gum disease and tooth decay to sleep apnea, we offer personalized care to meet your needs.
Fuller Dental is committed to comprehensive, patient-focused dental care and wants all patients to enjoy the many benefits of a healthy smile.
Dental Care Services For Children
Starting regular visits to the dentist early will help teach your child healthy lifetime habits. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the dentist early so they can become familiar with our dental office.
Our staff makes every effort to ensure our young patients’ comfort and safety, helping them develop confidence in their oral hygiene habits and feel comfortable when they visit with us for routine care.
One of the biggest challenges in children’s dentistry is preventing tooth decay. With routine visits to our dentist office, we can prevent tooth decay and subsequent dental cavities. Parents can do many things to ensure the health of their children’s teeth between visits:
- Brushing teeth twice a day
- Flossing once a day
- Limiting sugary drinks
- Following recommended guidelines for nursing, bottle, and sippy cup use
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most commonly asked questions concerning preventative dental care services.
What are sealants, and should my child get them?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They help block out food and bacteria that cause cavities. Children benefit the most from sealants when their permanent molars first come in, usually around ages 6 and 12. They’re a simple, painless way to add extra protection to your child’s smile.
Do adults ever need fluoride treatments, too?
Yes, adults can benefit from fluoride treatments, especially if they’re at a higher risk for cavities or have exposed root surfaces. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and protect against decay. It can also reduce sensitivity for some patients. Dr. Rawley Fuller can let you know if it’s a good option based on your oral health.
Can wisdom teeth issues be spotted during routine exams?
Yes, we often catch problems with wisdom teeth during routine exams and dental X-rays. You may not feel pain, but early signs like crowding, decay, or poor eruption patterns can still be detected. Catching these issues early helps prevent infections, damage to other teeth, and alignment issues.
Can cavities form even if I brush and floss regularly?
Yes, brushing and flossing are important, but cavities can still form, especially in hard-to-reach areas or deep grooves in the teeth. Diet, genetics, and lack of fluoride exposure can also play a role. Regular dental cleanings and exams help catch cavities early before they worsen.
How can you tell if you’re grinding your teeth at night?
Signs of night grinding include morning jaw pain, headaches, worn-down teeth, or increased tooth sensitivity. Dr. Fuller may also notice flat or chipped teeth during a routine exam. In some cases, you might hear clicking in the jaw or feel stiffness when waking up.
How often should I replace my toothbrush or toothbrush head?
You should replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every 3 to 4 months. If the bristles look frayed sooner, it’s time for a new one. Using a worn brush can reduce cleaning effectiveness and be rough on your gums.
Is fluoride treatment necessary for adults or just children?
Fluoride isn’t just for kids. It can benefit adults, too, especially those with cavities, gum recession, or dry mouth. It strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay. Dr. Fuller may recommend in-office fluoride if you’re at higher risk or as part of your preventive care plan.
Schedule A Dental Exam Visit Today
Fuller Dental welcomes new patients! We have served patients and families in Burlington, Elon, Graham, Mebane, Gibsonville, and surrounding Piedmont areas near you for over 45 years. To schedule a visit, contact us directly or request an appointment online. We look forward to meeting you!