Preventive Dentistry

In Shelby Township

We get it, it can be a bit too easy to put off your biannual 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.

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.

Digital x-rays are safe, quick, 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 or two full sets 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.

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; we may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes or so following your visit. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel, making it more resistant to acids from plaque, bacteria, and sugary foods that cause cavities.

When a pesky cavity pops up in your child's teeth, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) might come to the rescue! This kid-friendly procedure is quick, pain-free, and doesn't involve any drills or shots. It's like painting a superhero shield on their tooth that fights off decay-causing bacteria and strengthens their tooth. So, if your child has a cavity, fillings aren't the only heroes in town!

While often associated with children's dentistry, adults can benefit just as much from this proven preventive treatment. Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the deep grooves of your back teeth where decay often starts. Even with diligent brushing, these microscopic crevices can trap food and bacteria. Dental sealants create a smooth, protective barrier that's nearly invisible and can last for years, significantly reducing your risk of cavities. It's a quick, painless procedure that can save you time and money by preventing more extensive dental work down the road. If you're cavity-prone or want to take a proactive approach to your dental health, ask us about whether sealants could be right for you.

We focus on keeping your gums healthy through personalized periodontal care designed to prevent, detect, and treat gum disease. From routine cleanings and thorough evaluations to advanced treatment options, we’re here to support every stage of your oral health. By combining patient education with a whole-health approach, we help you maintain not just a healthy smile—but overall wellness.

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!

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.

Sports guards are worn over the teeth, and are specifically designed to protect your mouth from oral trauma caused by high-impact sports. Many sports put players at risk for dental injuries caused by collisions to the mouth, face, or head, but a custom-fitted sports guard can help protect you from chipping, cracking, or knocking out a tooth. Tailored to fit your unique smile, sports guards are both comfortable and durable, so you can play the sports you love without missing a beat.