Preventative dental care

In addition to performing check-ups and oral examinations, including screening for gingivitis and other periodontal diseases, Dr. Rosenblitt can help you keep your smile healthy through regular cleanings and good oral hygiene.

Cavities
Cavities are caused by bacteria that naturally live in the plaque on your teeth. Bacteria survive on simple sugars in the food you eat and as a byproduct, release acids and toxins which cause cavities. These acids if not removed, de-mineralize and eat through the surface of your teeth, creating actual holes.

Some people are more prone to dental decay because some types of oral bacteria produce more acids than others. Surprisingly, a cavity on a single tooth increases the chance of having cavities on multiple teeth because the saliva moves the acids around your mouth. However, susceptibility to dental decay is just as dependent on diet and oral hygiene.

Cervical Abrasion Lesions
Cervical abrasion lesions are a common problem and cause the breakdown of tooth structure at the gum line over time. In most cases, this is caused by excessive force used during brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush.

Excessive force causes a recession of the gingiva which exposes part of the tooth called cementum that holds the tooth in the bone. That's why brushing too hard can actually wear down your tooth structure, resulting in increased sensitivity to hot and cold sensations. The problem can often be addressed with a tooth-colored filling.

Fluoride
The proper use of topical and systemic fluoride has resulted in major tooth decay reductions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have named fluoridation of water as one of the 10 most important public health measures of the 20th century.

For most families, water system fluoridation has decreased the need to seek fluoride supplements. However, for people relying on well water, prescription or over the counter fluoride supplements are recommended. In addition, some patients with severe dental decay or underlying health problems may also need a supplemental fluoride. Dr. Rosenblitt will help you determine if there is any need to supplement your oral health with additional fluoride treatments.

Grinding Teeth (Bruxism)
Bruxing is the unintentional grinding together of your teeth. Most people do not even know they do it because it happens while sleeping or concentrating on an activity. Therapy is required to prevent teeth from being damaged by this constant grinding.

Oral Hygiene
Dr. Rosenblitt and his staff are happy to explain proper oral hygiene methods to use at home. Please feel free to ask us for help. You can also learn more about oral hygiene and proper at-home dental care here.

Sealants
Sealants are protective coverings that are most commonly used on children's adult teeth soon after they erupt. A "flowable" material is placed on the top surface of the teeth covering the natural grooves and protecting them against decay-causing bacteria.

This non-invasive method has proved invaluable for preventing future tooth decay in children's new molars. Occasionally, used on adults, sealants are most commonly used on children to compensate for potentially inferior oral hygiene.

Sports Guards
Sports Guards are a must to protect teeth from damage during physical activities. A custom-fitted mouth guard significantly reduces the chance of sports-related injuries.