Fight tooth loss with preventive dental care in Cleveland, OH
We at Downtown Dental Services believe the “best treatment” is “no treatment.” Preventive care at our Cleveland, OH office is built on a foundation of consistent, routine professional cleanings and dental examinations. Dr. Tony Lu blends this relationship-based approach with the latest and safest technologies that modern dentistry has to offer; for instance, the iTero NIRI cavity detection system precisely and clearly identifies early-stage decay without radiation. Generally, this blended approach results in the proactive and prompt identification of conditions ranging from cavities (tooth decay) to periodontal disease (gum disease). Early detection and identification of oral diseases are important because:
- Oral diseases are often “silent” or asymptomatic in their earliest stages
- Sometimes, the symptoms that are present are subtle. So, the patient may not think the slight discomfort or sensitivity is worth a special trip to the dentist.
- By the time the problem produces undeniable symptoms, it has likely progressed to the point where restorative treatment is necessary.
- Restorative treatment is largely more time-consuming, invasive, and costly than preventative services.
- Preventive services are also conservative. They preserve natural tooth structure, which is the best tooth structure. While dental materials and techniques can replicate a very lifelike tooth structure, a natural (healthy) tooth is still the pinnacle in terms of form and function.
The standard for all patients, regardless of risk, is to visit us once every six months. During these visits, Dr. Lu examines your teeth, gums, and other oral structures. What he cannot see, such as “hidden” decay, can be seen with sophisticated diagnostics. The conditions he detects with a trained eye and the right technology may produce slight symptoms if symptoms are present at all. Your dentist will also screen for lumps, bumps, and other abnormalities that could indicate mouth cancers.
During your appointment, specialized instruments will be used to remove plaque and tartar build-up from the teeth and gumline. A deep cleaning may be warranted for patients with active gum disease. Laser technologies are also available to gently remove bacteria from underneath the gumline and to encourage healthy reattachment of the gums to the teeth. Dental sealants, oral splints, and other preventive services may be recommended based on your needs and based off what Dr. Lu finds during your check-up. Do not delay. Contact us to schedule your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Preventative Care
What preventive dentistry services do I need?
At-home dental care is the first line of defense against most dental issues. However, even with good brushing and flossing habits, you still need the help of a dentist. One of the best things you can do for your smile is regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. Regular exams help us detect dental issues that may have gone unnoticed at home. Cleanings remove plaque from areas you can’t reach at home. Other preventive services you may need include oral cancer screenings, custom mouthguards, dental sealants, and fluoride treatments.
How often should I visit a dentist?
Routine dental visits are the foundation of preventive dental care. Visit your dentist at least once every six months. However, this is just the baseline. Some patients may need more frequent check-ups, typically every 3-4 months. Routine screenings help us detect oral issues before they progress into painful and costly problems.
Are dental X-rays safe?
We integrate modern technology into your care to enhance efficiency and precision. Dental X-rays help us detect bone loss, interdental cavities, cysts, abscesses, and other hidden problems.
Modern radiography is safer than ever. Digital X-rays emit 80-90% less radiation compared to traditional film-based X-rays. We also follow strict safety protocols, including the use of thyroid collars, to further minimize unwanted exposure. The benefits of X-rays far outweigh the risks.
Do you offer payment plans to make dental care affordable?
Yes! Everyone wants a healthy, confident smile, but dental care can sometimes feel costly. We are committed to making dental care affordable to individuals and families in Cleveland, Ohio, and the nearby areas. We offer a dental savings plan that includes preventive care and discounts on restorative and cosmetic treatments. Our in-house membership plan works like insurance, but without the hassle of deductibles, exclusions, waiting periods, and annual maximums.
That’s not all! We are also insurance-friendly and offer financing with CareCredit. Our objective is to make your dental care accessible, so you can focus on what matters most: your oral health.
What are the benefits of preventive dentistry?
Preventive dental care offers several benefits for your oral and overall health. Here are reasons you should prioritize preventive dental care.
- Helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other problems
- Dental cleanings remove odor-causing bacteria to maintain lasting fresh breath
- Preventing problems is much cheaper than treating them with restorative procedures
- A healthy mouth helps support optimal systemic health
- Prevention helps maintain a beautiful, confident smile
- It reduces the risk of emergencies and unnecessary discomfort
What happens if I skip dental visits?
Skipping routine dental visits may not seem like a big deal at first. However, minor, preventable problems can quietly progress into larger, more costly ones over time. Dental issues like cavities and gum disease cause no discomfort in the early stages. Without professional care, they develop silently and often require procedures that take more time, cost more, and entail a longer recovery period.
How do I book an appointment with my local dentist?
Preventive dental care helps you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for many years. If you are ready to get started, call (216) 616-1155 and schedule an appointment with Downtown Dental Services of Cleveland, Ohio. Alternatively, you can reserve your appointment online.