Close up of germs on teeth

Preventive Dentistry in Wellington

Solid preventive care is the foundation for your oral and overall health. Good at-home hygiene habits, in combination with professional cleanings, can keep your smile free from decay and other oral health issues like gum disease. Regular exams allow us to monitor your oral health so you can address any minor concerns before they become larger, more costly, and more invasive issues.

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Preventive Dentistry

Diagnostic & Prevention

We get it, it can be a bit too easy to put off your bi-annual dental exam and we don't blame you, life gets busy! But remember, skipping your appointments can cost even more time and money in the future. Coming in twice a year allows us to catch small issues before they become time-consuming, expensive problems. Regular check-ups only take about an hour and we assure you that we will make it a comfortable process. Let's keep that smile of yours healthy with our excellent preventive services.

Preventive Dentistry

Cleaning & Hygiene

Regular teeth cleanings and hygiene appointments are the foundation of preventive dental care. During your cleaning, we will thoroughly cleanse your teeth and gums, removing any plaque or debris from every surface in your mouth. You’ll even be able to reverse minor stains to keep your smile bright and beautiful. We recommend scheduling routine cleanings and exams every six months for most patients.

However, good oral hygiene shouldn’t stop when you leave our office. Keeping up with your at-home brushing and flossing routine is equally as important as attending professional cleanings, and is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Use a fluoride-rich toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time; and don’t forget to floss! Flossing at least once every day, ideally before going to bed, helps to get rid of food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can’t be removed with brushing alone.

Preventive Dentistry

Digital X-Rays

Digital x-rays are safe and comfortable. Using the latest technology, we can create crisp, high-resolution images of your mouth’s structure, so we can make accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. Digital x-rays use only a fraction of the radiation as traditional film x-rays, so you can rest easy. Most patients receive one set of x-rays every year, but we may recommend additional imaging in the case of a dental emergency, or if we find an oral health issue that we need to investigate further.

Preventive Dentistry

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are one of the best ways to keep dental decay at bay. A simple, non-invasive procedure, fluoride treatments help to keep your enamel strong. After your cleaning, we’ll apply a fluoride-rich varnish or gel. Fluoride helps kickstart a process called “remineralization,” which restores essential minerals like calcium and phosphates to your teeth, keeping your enamel hard and resistant to acids, like those that cause tooth decay.

Preventive Dentistry

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a great way for patients to protect their teeth from decay. Dental sealants are often recommended for children, but can still be a great option for patients of all ages. Plus, dental sealants can provide protection for your teeth for years after being applied.

Applying dental sealants is a quick, non-invasive procedure that utilizes a dental resin that is applied to the molars. The uneven surface of molars, which are located in the rear of the mouth, are filled with grooves where plaque and bacteria can flourish. After application, the resin is cured with a UV light, causing it to harden into a powerful barrier between your teeth and the foods, drinks, acid, and bacteria that lead to decay.

Preventive Dentistry

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can be painful, stressful experiences, but we're here to help. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing to do is take a deep breath and keep calm. Then, give us a call to find out if you need immediate care. Dental emergencies can be anything from a knocked-out tooth or dental work to a persistent toothache. If you're unsure if what you're experiencing qualifies as a dental emergency, it's better to be safe than sorry, so get in touch with us right away so you can get the care you need when you need it.

Preventive Dentistry

Periodontal Care

When left untreated, gum disease can have serious effects on your oral and overall health. Gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss can occur without proper treatment, so scheduling regular checkups for treatment is essential. Our team can keep gum disease from compromising your smile through a variety of periodontal treatments, such as deep cleanings (also known as scaling and root planing). If your gums are inflamed or bleed easily, if you have persistent bad breath, sensitive teeth, or notice any changes in your bite, get in touch with us today. We'll schedule a consultation to get your smile back on a healthy path.

Preventive Dentistry

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are a part of every preventive visit, and are a quick way to fortify your peace of mind. Through consistent exams, we can catch oral cancer early on, which gives us a better chance at treating it before it spreads. A routine oral cancer screening can even save your life!

Your dentist will examine your gums, tongue, and the rest of the soft tissues in your mouth, keeping an eye out for lesions and other abnormalities like lumps and discolorations. If there is anything that concerns us, we may recommend getting a biopsy, which will be analyzed by a specialist to determine the cause of the abnormality. Regular oral cancer screenings allow us to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

Preventive Dentistry

Night Guards

Unconscious teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, is a common issue that tends to happen at night while patients are asleep. However, night guards can help patients alleviate symptoms of bruxism by creating a barrier between your teeth that protects them from grinding-related damage. Depending on the severity of the case, night guards can be made from several different materials with varying degrees of softness.

Preventive Dentistry

TMJ/TMD Treatment

Does your jaw click or pop when you open your mouth? Do you regularly experience soreness, tension, or find it hard to enjoy your favorite foods? You may have a form of TMJ/TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder). Fortunately, there are a variety of minimally invasive treatments that can provide you with the relief you deserve. Don't live with jaw pain; get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you alleviate your TMJ/TMD so you can get back to living life with a smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix Crooked Teeth?

Absolutely! Cosmetic dentistry is a versatile field that offers numerous solutions to common dental problems, including crooked teeth. One of the main goals of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance the appearance of your smile. If you're dealing with crooked teeth, you're probably familiar with the impact it can have on your confidence and self-esteem.

Dr. Daniel Krauss at South Shore Dentistry, a leading cosmetic dentist in Wellington, FL, offers various treatments designed to correct crooked teeth. These include clear aligners, porcelain veneers, and more. These treatments not only straighten your teeth but also contribute to improving your oral health. It's important to remember that each patient's case is unique, and Dr. Krauss will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

Does Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?

This is a common question and the answer largely depends on your insurance provider and the specific procedure. Generally, cosmetic dentistry procedures are considered elective and therefore not typically covered by dental insurance. However, there are instances where a cosmetic procedure can also restore function or improve oral health, in which case, your insurance might offer some level of coverage.

For example, procedures like dental implants or crowns, which can be categorized as both restorative and cosmetic, might be partially covered. It's always best to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered under your plan. At South Shore Dentistry, we understand that the cost of treatment is a concern for many patients, and we're here to help you navigate the process and explore all available options.
The best way to determine if cosmetic dentistry is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rodriguez at Diversey Dental Studio. During this appointment, she'll thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, discuss your aesthetic goals, and provide personalized recommendations on the treatments that could benefit you most.

What Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix?

Cosmetic dentistry can address a wide range of dental issues. From minor imperfections to more complex dental problems, there's likely a cosmetic solution that can help. Some of the issues that cosmetic dentistry can fix include:

1. Discolored or stained teeth: Teeth whitening procedures can brighten your smile and eliminate stains caused by food, drink, or aging.

2. Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth: Dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or crowns can restore the appearance and function of damaged teeth.

3. Missing teeth: Dental implants, bridges, and dentures offer solutions for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile.

4. Crooked or misaligned teeth: Clear aligners or traditional braces can straighten your teeth and improve your bite.

5. Gaps between teeth: Veneers or orthodontic treatments can close gaps and create a more uniform smile.Dr. Daniel Krauss at South Shore Dentistry in Wellington is experienced in all these procedures and more. He is committed to helping patients achieve their dream smile through personalized, high-quality cosmetic dentistry treatments.

How Long Do Cosmetic Dentistry Results Last?

The durability of cosmetic treatment varies depending on the procedure and how well you take care of your teeth afterward. For instance, teeth whitening can last anywhere from several months to a few years, but the longevity is influenced by dietary choices and oral hygiene habits. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, can last up to 15 years or more with proper care. Similarly, dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution with the potential to last a lifetime if properly maintained.