At Midtown Dental in Raleigh, NC, preventive dentistry is at the foundation of our family-first approach for every generation. Our comprehensive service list is designed to help you maintain a beautiful smile and achieve optimal oral health for life by stopping problems before they start. Through a combination of routine check-ups, professional cleanings, early detection using advanced technology, and personalized patient education, we work collaboratively with you to manage plaque, prevent cavities, and detect gum disease in its earliest stages.
Investing in consistent preventive care saves you time, money, and discomfort by minimizing the need for complex, costly procedures down the road. Our top preventive dental services include:
Dental Exams
A preventive dental exam is the cornerstone of preventive oral healthcare, designed to keep your mouth healthy and catch potential problems early. During your preventive visit, your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation that goes beyond just checking your teeth. This includes a detailed visual inspection of your teeth for decay, cracks, or wear, an assessment of your gums for signs of periodontal (gum) disease, and a crucial screening for oral cancer by examining your head, neck, and soft tissues.
We also review necessary digital X-rays to detect what can't be seen with the naked eye, like bone levels and decay between the teeth. This comprehensive approach allows us to create a precise, personalized treatment plan focused on maintaining your best possible oral health and overall well-being.
Professional Cleanings
Professional cleanings are a vital part of your preventive care routine, and will go far beyond what you can achieve with daily brushing and flossing at home. During this appointment, our hygienist uses specialized instruments to gently and thoroughly remove plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gum line. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and, if left untreated, it harbors bacteria that cause cavities, gum inflammation (gingivitis), and advanced gum disease (periodontitis). Your cleaning appointment will leave your mouth feeling fresh, healthy, and less susceptible to long-term dental health concerns.
Fluoride/Varnish Treatment
Fluoride varnish treatment is applied directly to the teeth during your preventive check-up visit. This quick and painless treatment works by immediately strengthening your tooth enamel, making it much more resistant to acid erosion and decay caused by bacteria and sugars. The varnish stays on your teeth for several hours, slowly releasing the protective mineral to help remineralize (repair) areas of the tooth that have already begun to decay, and providing extra protection against the formation of new cavities. It's a simple, effective, and safe way to give your smile an extra layer of defense, especially if you are prone to cavities or have exposed root surfaces.
Teeth Desensitizing Treatments
If you experience sudden, sharp pain when consuming hot or cold foods, sweets, or even breathing in cold air, you may have dentin hypersensitivity, commonly known as sensitive teeth. This happens when the protective enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing the tiny tubes that lead to the tooth's nerve. To provide relief, we offer desensitizing treatments, which typically involve applying professional-grade varnishes or solutions directly to the sensitive areas. These treatments work by either blocking those exposed tubules to prevent temperature changes from reaching the nerve or by strengthening the exposed enamel and root surface. They are a simple, non-invasive way to significantly reduce discomfort and allow you to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without pain.
Silver-Diamine Treatment
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a non-invasive liquid treatment we use to safely and effectively stop the progression of tooth decay (cavities) and prevent further damage, without the need for drilling or shots. This clear liquid is simply painted onto the decayed area; the silver component works to kill the bacteria that cause the cavity, while the high concentration of fluoride immediately strengthens the enamel. SDF is particularly useful for treating early cavities in primary (baby) teeth, managing decay in patients who may have difficulty with traditional restorations, or as an interim treatment. The main side effect is that the treated decay will turn a dark brown or black color; however, this staining is localized only to the decayed area, indicating that the decay process has been successfully halted.
Mouthguards for Bruxism
If you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, a condition called bruxism, a custom-fitted mouthguard is often the most effective treatment. Made from durable, clear acrylic, this appliance is custom-designed to fit precisely over your upper or lower teeth, creating a cushioned barrier between your dental arches. The mouthguard does not stop the grinding habit itself, but it prevents the intense forces of clenching and grinding from causing severe damage like cracked teeth, worn enamel, jaw pain (TMJ issues), and headaches. Wearing your custom-made mouthguard while you sleep is a simple, non-invasive step that protects your existing dental work and preserves your natural tooth structure for years to come.
Family Dentistry
With family dentistry and kids' dental services, we offer comprehensive, convenient dental care for every member of your household, regardless of age or stage of life. Choosing a family dentist simplifies your schedule because you can book appointments for your toddlers, children, teenagers, adults, and seniors all in one accessible location.
We treat children and focus on establishing good oral hygiene habits from a very young age, while also providing age-appropriate care that evolves with each family member, from preventive services like cleanings and sealants, to restorative procedures like fillings and crowns, and even cosmetic treatments. Our goal is to serve as your long-term oral health partner, providing continuous, personalized care and maintaining detailed records for your entire family's dental history, which ensures seamless and coordinated treatment for everyone.
Schedule Your Family's Preventive Care in Raleigh
Don't wait for a problem to arise to prioritize your smile. Consistent preventive care is the single most important step you can take for your long-term health. Call Midtown Dental today to schedule your next comprehensive exam and professional cleaning. Let us partner with you to keep your teeth and gums healthy, bright, and strong for years to come. Call us now to reserve your preventive care appointment!
