Preventive Dentistry – Henrico, VA

Dental Checkups & Cleanings

Dental cleanings and exams are two of the most basic yet important preventive treatments we provide at our office. Each time you visit our dental practice for a checkup, we will provide a professional teeth cleaning and dental exam to help your smile stay healthy. During your cleaning and exam, our dental team will:

• Clean your teeth by removing any plaque or tartar (also called calculus), which can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease
• Floss and polish your teeth for a healthy, bright smile
• Examine your smile for signs of any damaging dental conditions or diseases

We may utilize dental X-rays to further evaluate your smile and make certain that you receive the dental care you need. Regular dental cleanings and exams are essential in maintaining good oral health, preventing cavities and gum disease, and making sure that any damaging conditions are treated as early as possible.

Oral Cancer Screening

Early detection is essential when it comes to dealing with oral cancer. Because of its fast-acting and often hidden symptoms, visiting our dental office for a regular oral cancer screening can help to save your life. Dr. Neal will perform a visual examination to check for abnormalities, lesions, or colored patches of tissue to determine if you need further testing from a local physician. The sooner you receive treatment, the greater your chances of survival.

Nightguards & Mouthguards for Bruxism

Bruxism is a condition where you grind or clench your teeth, either consciously during the day or subconsciously during the night. In many cases, bruxism occurs while you are sleeping, causing many people to be unaware that they have it.

Several oral appliances can be used to treat bruxism, with nightguards being the most common; these devices protect your teeth while you sleep much more comfortably. However, our dentist may also recommend a mouthguard. Functioning the same as a nightguard, a mouthguard provides customized protection throughout the day instead.

An occlusal splint is also an option for patients with more serious cases of bruxism and/or TMJ disorder. Their purpose is to allow your upper and lower teeth to come together without actually making contact in a damaging way.