Don't Wait Until It Hurts

Why You Need Preventative Dental Care

Caring for your teeth is easy and essential for maintaining a healthy smile. But brushing twice a day is not enough. Make sure to floss your teeth daily to help prevent cavities between your teeth. Still, day-to-day care alone will not always prevent expensive dental treatments.

Maintain a Healthy Smile

To maintain good oral health, the American Dental Association recommends:

• brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months
• flossing between your teeth each day
• eating healthy
• visiting your dentist regularly

Scheduling routine dental visits at Smiles by Design in South Austin is the best way to prevent cavities and gum disease. Why is it so important?

Cavities typically don't hurt so it is not likely that you be able to detect a cavity in your mouth without visiting the dentist. During routine visits, Dr. Flury will review annual x-rays and exam your teeth and gums. If Dr. Flury detects a cavity or gum disease, he will recommend appropriate dental treatment.

Prevent a Root Canal

Filling a cavity prevents it from continuing to damage your tooth. Rapid decay or a cavity left untreated, can lead to an infection or more severe damage to your tooth. If decay reaches the tooth's nerve, a root canal is usually recommended to save the tooth. A crown is then placed over the tooth to restore the top of the tooth and help make it stronger.

Prevent Gum Disease

Good oral hygiene and routine visits to Smiles by Design can prevent Periodontal Disease - an infection of the tissues supporting your teeth - also called Gum Disease. During a dental exam, Dr. Flury will check for signs of periodontal disease, such as receding gums, gums that bleed easily, red or swollen gums, and loose or separating adult teeth.

If you notice signs of periodontal disease or have persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that isn't resolved with brushing or mouthwash, schedule a dental appointment right away.

Contact Smiles by Design at 512-282-4271 to schedule a routine dental visit in South Austin!