PREVENTATIVE CARE IN HONOLULU

Regular dental cleanings are essential in remaining good oral health for life. We recommend visits at least once every six months to ensure your teeth and gums are in optimal shape. During your professional cleaning, you will learn about your dental health and the benefits of preventive dentistry.

Keep your teeth healthy with A dental cleaning

A dental cleaning can go a long way in restoring your oral health and brightening your smile! Our team will always use state of the art technology to help you manage your gums and periodontal health. Dental cleanings are important to remove plaque and calculus that can often lead to cavities and periodontal disease if left alone. Plaque also contributes to halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath. At your hygiene visit, we will also update you on the latest oral hygiene recommendations, check your teeth for decay, and perform a thorough cancer screening. Fluoride treatments and dental x-rays may be recommended when appropriate!

Dr. Sugiki’s preventive services

A comprehensive dental exam performed by Dr. Sugiki will review your medical and dental history to determine if there are any changes that can affect your overall oral health. You will also receive a diagnostic examination for cavities and gum disease and ensure any existing fillings are in tip top shape. Your oral cancer screening will evaluate your face, neck, throat, lips, tongue and gums for any early signs of oral cancer. Digital X-rays and a panoramic, if necessary, will help detect any cavities, bone loss, or cysts. Studies show dental decay is the most chronic disease among children ages 5 to 17. We offer fluoride treatments for both children and adults to help protect your pearly whites! It is our goal to educate you on your oral health and establish a “dental home” so you feel confident and comfortable during your visits.

BENEFITS of preventative care

  • Visiting the dentist twice a year for hygiene visits helps us detect early signs of decay, gum disease or oral cancer.
  • Digital x-rays and intraoral cameras are advanced technology that helps us get a clear image of your whole mouth and identify any problems like missing teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth. It also exposes us to less radiation than traditional x-rays, giving us more peace of mind.
  • Oral education keeps us on our toes and helps us maintain long, healthy habits on how to brush and floss properly!

Preventative Care FAQ

What is the benefit of fluoride treatments?

The main purpose of dental fluoride is to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. It works by re-mineralizing the enamel and prevents the breakdown by forming. Fluoride also helps reduce the accumulation of harmful bacteria that causes tooth and root decay.

Are dental x-rays safe?

Digital x-rays like intraoral radiographs or a panoramic at our office are used to help early decay, bone loss and other dental issues. The benefits of digital x-rays are an immediate clear view of the imaged area with significantly less radiation exposure!

What are different types of dental cleaning offered?

Your dental cleaning will depend on how healthy your gums are. You may need a prophylaxis cleaning, a scaling and root planning or a periodontal debridement for gum therapy. Dr. Sugiki will evaluate your gums and discuss which type of cleaning best fits your needs.

How does flossing help prevent cavities?

Floss should be gathered between two fingers in a C shape and slid between the teeth and below the gum line. Most people don’t realize that without flossing, brushing only cleans 60% part of the tooth. Floss helps remove all the buildup between teeth that could potentially cause cavities and gum disease if left there for long periods of time.

How much does preventive care cost?

Preventive care is the most affordable treatment to maintain your oral health. In many cases, your dental insurance will cover some or all of the treatment. Speak to our office if you have any questions about your dental coverage.

GET THE CARE YOUR SMILE DESERVES