A preventive dentistry program involves you, your dentist, and your dental staff teaming up to preserve the health of your teeth. Preventing periodontal disease (gum disease) and tooth decay starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet.  Screenings for oral cancer and other potential dental issues will also be covered at regular six-month dental checkups. You have probably been to the dentist quite a few times over your life. Have you been paying attention? Your Farmington Hills dentist, Dr. Aziza Askari, challenges you to a quiz on general dentistry.

Questions

Q1. True or false – Prevention with your oral health is a good idea, but optional.

Q2. True or false –  X-rays can detect tooth decay.

Q3. True or false – Diagnodent is a relatively new technology that can diagnose cavities more accurately than regular x-rays.

Q4. True or false – Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by your dentist. 

Answers

A1. FALSE – Preventive dental appointments will help you avoid serious and costly dental issues. Prevention is the key to having a healthy, beautiful, confident smile.

A2. TRUE – Dental x-rays help screen for tooth decay, as well as cysts, tumors, bone loss, and the position of roots.

A3. TRUE – Diagnodent  is a revolutionary diagnostic tool that exposes more cavities than x-rays and thorough dental examinations.  Diagnodent is over 90% accurate because it exposes cavities early enough that the least invasive procedures can be used to stop decay. Diagnodent is completely safe, limits radiation exposure, and is reported to be very comfortable for patients.

A4. FALSE – Removal of hardened plaque (tartar) that has been left on the teeth for some time will usually be performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist.  Tartar forms below and above the gum line and should only be removed by a trained profession using special dental instruments.