FAQs About Preventive Dentistry

preventive dentistry

Did you know that by maintaining good dental habits, you can safeguard your smile against serious issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease? Preventive dentistry helps improve the health and appearance of your smile. Your Astoria NY dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, offers an array of preventive dentistry treatments designed to boost oral health and protect your smile.

Preventive Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How often should I receive a dental checkup?

Answer: The American Dental Association recommends adults and children over the age of three undergo a routine checkup once every six months. A checkup allows your Astoria NY dentist to perform a thorough oral examination, watching for the earliest signs of developing dental issues. By detecting problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, early, you can avoid the need for more costly and invasive treatment down the road.

Question: Can a routine cleaning help prevent gum disease?

Answer: Yes. Gum disease develops after plaque buildup inflames the gums. Soon, the gums may pull away from the teeth and form pockets at the gum line. Once bacteria reach these pockets, patients may experience sore, red gums that bleed easily and loose teeth. A cleaning allows us to remove the layers of plaque, reducing the risk of gum disease.

Question: Does my Astoria NY dentist offer treatment for TMJ disorder?

Answer: Yes, Dr. Leibowitz offers TMJ treatment as part of our approach to preventive dentistry. TMJ disorder is the result of excessive jaw joint strain and can make opening and closing the mouth difficult. Using a variety of treatments, including oral splints and muscle exercises, Dr. Leibowitz can address your jaw joint strain and ease tension.

Question: What options does Dr. Leibowitz offer to treat sleep apnea?

Answer: Sleep apnea occurs when soft tissue in the back of the throat blocks airflow and causes patients to stop breathing momentarily. Over time, sleep apnea leaves a patient exhausted and suffering from an increased risk of high blood pressure and depression. By recommending lifestyle changes or prescribing an oral appliance, Dr. Leibowitz can reduce sleep apnea symptoms so you can rest easy.

About Dr. Leibowitz:

Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, a native New Yorker, has served patients and families from Astoria, Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment at our Astoria dentist’s office, contact us at (718) 728-8320 today.