Dental Health

Poor oral health may likely cause gum disease, the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. However, gum disease is preventable in most cases. Gums become inflamed and bleed easily, which is the first stage of gum disease known as gingivitis when oral bacteria is not properly removed through daily brushing and flossing. Oral bacteria multiply and secrete acids that cause tartar buildup. You can remove tartar when you brush and floss, although if it remains on your teeth for too long, it hardens and becomes plaque, a substance that cannot be brushed or flossed away. Professional dental cleanings are the only way to remove plaque. If ignored, plaque harbors harmful bacteria that begin infecting the gums and the underlying jawbone. Left untreated entirely, gum disease develops and may result in irreversible damage to your oral health or total tooth loss in the most severe cases.

Dental Cleaning

The ADA recommends receiving two dental cleanings a year or once every six months. Studies show that twice-yearly dental cleanings effectively remove stuck-on tartar buildup that could result in gum disease. Additionally, professional dental cleanings, also referred to as prophylaxis, reduces stains on your teeth, freshens your breath, and results in an improved appearance when you smile. Most dental insurance plans offer coverage for preventive care that may result in little to no cost to you. However, to learn about your dental insurance benefits and coverage amounts, we encourage you to speak with our office directly or contact your insurance.

Periodontal Maintenance

If you have gum disease, we have a solution for you. Plaque and tartar buildup harbor oral bacteria that secrete harmful substances that erode dental enamel lead to gum infections, and cause gum disease. Dr. Mohler’s periodontal maintenance program helps by reducing the number of oral bacteria in your mouth through deep dental cleanings at scheduled intervals throughout the year. Periodontal maintenance cleanings may occur more frequently than standard dental cleanings, although ongoing periodontal management can help prevent your condition from worsening and preserve your oral health.

Children’s Dentistry

Children’s teeth are important even though they will eventually lose all of their baby teeth at some point. Your child should maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, and daily flossing habits should start as soon as their teeth begin touching. We encourage parents to bring their children in for six-month cleanings and checkups. Children need their teeth to speak properly, chew nutritious food, and maintain their self-confidence. Dr. Mohler may also recommend additional preventive care for children like deal sealants, which add an additional layer of protection against cavity formation.

Dental Sealants

Sealants are a substance that is placed on the chewing surface of the back teeth to create a barrier for bacteria to cause cavities in these areas of their teeth. Additionally, sealants are most effective when placed on permanent teeth as soon as they erupt, before bacteria have a chance to infiltrate the enamel. While sealants effectively reduce the number of cavities a child may develop, your child still should practice good oral hygiene, limit sugar, and eat a healthy diet of nutritious foods. Many dental insurance plans provide benefits to cover preventive dental care for children. Please check with our Beaufort dental practice that accepts kids to find out more about your dental insurance covers and potential out-of-pocket expenses for your child’s visit with us.

Family Dentist in Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head

At Chris Mohler, DDS, we welcome patients of all ages. Your dental health is important to us, which is why we strive to provide exceptional care in a comfortable environment. All are welcome! We do not judge you based on the state of your oral health. Instead, we invite patients to play an active role in their oral health care as we help educate our patients on the best ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you would like to schedule a dental cleaning in Beaufort or need to find out about getting sealants for your child, please call Chris Mohler, DDS, at (843) 522-1442 or complete our Contact Form below.