The main goal of our Miami dental office is to focus on the preventative care of our patients. Since each patient presents a unique clinical picture, Dr. Merlo-Quiñones works closely with each patient to customize their individual hygiene regimen both at our practice and at home.
The basis for all preventive dental care is to maintain a routine where you are receiving regular examinations and professional cleaning at least once every six months. By receiving proper preventative care you can limit the need for further dental treatment and help improve your quality of life. No matter how often you brush and floss at home, you can never remove all the bacteria, commonly known as plaque, which accumulates on your teeth. To maintain the integrity of your teeth and oral health it is imperative to seek professional preventive dental care.
During the comprehensive exam, Dr. Merlo-Quiñones will thoroughly evaluate and examine the health of your teeth and gums as well as take x-rays to identify if any treatment is needed. A professional cleaning will improve and maintain the health of your gums and tissues by removing any plaque before it becomes tartar. It helps minimize dental infections and it will also improve your appearance and breath. Studies have also shown that patients who maintain their oral health are healthier overall as well.
Make an appointment at Miami Dentistry Center today to begin your preventive dental care and let us help you have beautiful and healthy teeth for a lifetime.
Comprehensive Oral Evaluation
The American Dental Association defines a comprehensive oral exam as “an extensive evaluation and the recording of all extraoral, intraoral and soft tissues”. They also recommend new patients have a comprehensive dental exam performed the first visit to a dental office, and that they undergo this type of exam every three years. This usually takes an entire office visit to be scheduled. Areas to be examined, could include any and all of the following areas:
• Periodontal and Dental Exam
• Cancer screening
• Bite analysis
• Jaw Exam (TMJ)
• X-rays
• Salivary Function Exam
• Esthetic/Cosmetic Exam
Professional Cleanings
Professional teeth cleanings involve the removal of plaque from teeth by a dentist or Certified Dental Hygienist, which can help prevent cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. This should be part of a complete and ongoing program of oral hygiene.
Periodontal Maintenance
Perio maintenance involves a cleaning performed by a dentist or registered hygienist, to clean the teeth thoroughly. This ongoing maintenance is important and can help stop the progression of perio disease.
Fluoride Treatments
Flouride is a mineral which occurs naturally in many foods and drinks. Fluoride is redeposited (remineralization) to the enamel layer of the teeth. This helps repair the enamel layer and prevent tooth decay. Fluoride treatments involve delivering fluoride directly onto the teeth, in order to prevent tooth decay and cavities. For best results, this should be done by professionally, at a dental office if deemed necessary after a thorough examination.
Sealants
Sealants are a tooth colored acrylic coating which is in essence “painted” on the chewing surfaces of the molars and pre-molars. These teeth which are located in the back of the mouth are more vulnerable to decay because their grooves make it difficult to clean thoroughly even with vigorous brushing. By sealing these teeth you are protecting them from decay by keeping bacteria, germs and food particles out.
Sleep Apnea
At Miami Dentistry Center we can evaluate if you are a candidate for a sleep apnea oral appliance, a mouthpiece that should be custom-fitted to each patient. If done properly, this appliance can help you sleep soundly and minimize the effects of sleep apnea and snoring. The treatment for sleep apnea should be individualized, to each patient’s unique needs. These appliances position the mouth to prevent some effects of sleep apnea, such as throat blockage. The sleep apnea appliance positions the lower jaw slightly forward during rest. The mouthpiece will help keep your airways open while you sleep. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has endorsed oral appliance therapy for some patients with sleep apnea, and the appliances are FDA approved. Call our office to schedule an appointment and find out if you are a candidate.
