The goal of preventive dentistry is to avoid unnecessary damage to your teeth and gums. In other words, its objective is to prevent cavities, infections, tooth loss, and other unpleasant oral health problems. Although healthy teeth and gums are the most compelling reasons to schedule your twice-a-year dental exam in Astoria, NY, you might be surprised to learn that these visits also help maintain and even improve the appearance of your teeth. Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, who offers both preventive and cosmetic dental care, explains how the two are related.
Periodontal Disease and Your Gum Line
During your checkup, Dr. Leibowitz will screen you for periodontal disease, a gum infection that is largely preventable. Tooth loss, a long-term consequence of the disease, affects not only your oral health, but the appearance of your face as well. Gum disease affects your gum line in two ways: When the tissue becomes swollen and inflamed, this creates hard-to-reach areas that may not be easily reached by your toothbrush. Eventually the gums can recede dramatically, making your teeth appear longer than is normal.
Strong Teeth Are Attractive Teeth
You may have read that tooth enamel is the hardest natural substance in the human body. Correct, says Dr. Leibowitz, but this doesn’t mean it can hold up to unnatural stress and wear. Healthy tooth enamel is less likely to suffer from minor cosmetic damages, such as a chip or small crack. Fluoridated water, a calcium-rich diet, and proper preventive care go a long way toward protecting the strength and appearance of your teeth.
Clean, White Teeth
Preventive measures such as brushing your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. The damages inflicted by plaque buildup are twofold. First, the sticky substance is yellow and causes your teeth to appear stained. Also, bacteria that make up plaque produce acids that weaken tooth enamel. Teeth with eroded or acid-damaged enamel are extremely susceptible to staining.
About Your Astoria Dentist
To learn more about preventive and cosmetic dentistry in Astoria, NY, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, contact us at (718) 728-8320. We welcome patients living in and around Astoria, Queens, NYC, upstate New York, and New Jersey.
