Preventive Dentistry – Lakewood, CO
We Make It Easy to Maintain a Healthy Smile
When it comes to dental health, a little bit of prevention now can pay off later on. If you visit a skilled dentist like Dr. Henry twice a year for cental checkups, you can stop tooth decay and infections from worsening and requiring more extensive treatments down the road. Has it been more than six months since your last dental checkup? If so, we’d love for you to call us and schedule your next one, so don't hesitate to reach out to our dental office for preventive dentistry in Lakewood, CO!
Why Choose Dedicated Dentistry for Preventive Dentistry?
- Stress-Free, Low-Pressure Approach to Dental Care
- Pillows, Blankets, & Nitrous Oxide Sedation Offered
- We Welcome Patients of All Ages
Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings
No matter your age or the state of your teeth, we encourage you to visit our dental office at least twice a year for a regular checkup and cleaning. At these appointments, Dr. Henry can closely look at your teeth, gums, existing dental work, and overall bite before creating a plan to treat any issues. Then, one of our experienced hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing cavity-causing plaque and surface stains for a healthier smile.
Nightguards for Bruxism
You may not have heard the term “bruxism” before, but if you grind your teeth while you sleep, then you probably have it. In the short term, bruxism can cause sensitive teeth and a sore jaw, but without treatment, it can wear down your enamel and lead to serious damage. To protect your smile, Dr. Henry can provide a custom-made nightguard. Simply wear it to bed, and your teeth will be shielded from harm.
Fluoride Treatments
After we’ve given your teeth a professional cleaning, we’ll often apply a varnish of highly concentrated fluoride. Why? This naturally occurring mineral reinforces your tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. For that reason, you’ll often find fluoride added to toothpaste, mouthwash, and even tap water. If Dr. Henry thinks you could benefit from some additional protection against cavities, our quick, painless fluoride treatments can do just that.
Oral Cancer Screenings
On average, oral cancer claims the life of one person in the U.S. every hour, primarily because cancer in the mouth and throat isn’t caught until the advanced stages. Early detection is the key to successful treatment and survival. That’s why we screen for oral cancer during each checkup. Our VELscope system lets us easily identify any abnormal tissues. If we detect anything that could point to oral cancer, we’ll arrange for a biopsy.
Athletic Mouthguards
Wearing a helmet when playing contact sports is a no-brainer; however, many athletes don’t give their teeth the same level of protection. In fact, about 40% of all dental injuries are linked to playing sports. If you or a family member is an avid athlete who is at risk of suffering facial trauma, our personalized athletic mouthguards fit more comfortably and provide greater protection than the cheaply made ones at the sporting goods store.
Dental Sealants
Your molars and premolars are particularly vulnerable to decay because of their deep grooves. To prevent food debris and bacteria from getting trapped, we can apply dental sealants over the chewing surfaces. A thin, clear resin creates a barrier against cavity-causing debris that can last for up to a decade. Sealants are especially helpful for children who are still learning to brush, but they can benefit patients of all ages.