Bi-annual dental exams
Total Care Dental provides excellent, comprehensive and preventative oral health care for patients from Madison and surrounding communities. Our family dentists check your teeth, gums, tongue, jaw and bone structure for any concerns, providing early detection for potential dental health issues and other diseases.
Basic preventive dentistry includes:
- Annual checkups
- Brushing
- Flossing
- Eating healthy food
Without regular cleanings, bacteria in your mouth can multiply and lead to gum inflammation and infections. Nearly every dental health issue can be prevented with routine dental exams and teeth cleaning.
Dr. Jason Vandehaar, DDS Dentist & Owner
Why is Preventative Dentistry Important?
The two main causes of tooth loss are decay and gum disease. During check-ups, our team will provide expert guidance on effective oral care techniques,
recommend oral care products, offer dietary advice and help you break bad habits. Take proactive steps to maintain optimal oral health between dental visits.
Regular check-ups can help catch early signs of health issues like oral cancer, gum disease and bruxism, saving you money on treatments.
Can Diet Affect Dental Health?
Your diet has a significant impact on your dental health. Sugary foods and drinks are major contributors to tooth decay. Reducing your sugar intake can lower the risk of oral health issues. Opt for teeth-friendly foods like cheese, fruits, nuts and vegetables to protect against gum disease and oral cancer. Prioritize a tooth-friendly diet for a happy, healthy mouth.
How Do Smoking and Drinking Affect Teeth and Gums?
Smoking and vaping can cause tooth staining, tooth loss and mouth cancer, and worsen gum disease. Dentists advise quitting or visiting your dental team more frequently. Alcohol consumption also raises the risk of mouth cancer and can cause decay and erosion due to sugar or acid content.
Schedule a Consultation
What Should I Expect at a Preventative Dental Appointment?
Typically, a routine dental appointment consists of a comprehensive exam (evaluation of your mouth for tooth decay, periodontal disease & oral cancer) and a professional cleaning. TCD Madison dentists will:
- Examine your teeth, gums and mouth for signs of disease
- Take updated X-rays of your teeth, if needed
- Perform an oral cancer screening
- Remove plaque buildup on your teeth and gums
- Answer your questions and concerns
Dental Insurance Covers Preventive Care
Most dental insurance providers cover the costs of basic preventive care. TCD Madison accepts all the best Wisconsin insurers. We’re happy to help you understand what is and isn’t covered by your plan before you come in for an appointment.
Available Financing for Preventative Care Treatments
Don't delay preventative care for your teeth because of cost. We use financing plans to make treatment as affordable as possible. This includes available financing for patients with no dental insurance.
Schedule a Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventative Dental Care
What is preventative dentistry?
Preventative dentistry is any dental appointment to check your teeth and help keep them healthy.
Is there a link between oral health and heart disease?
Many health problems are linked to poor oral health, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, pregnancy problems and more. When gum disease gets out of control, the bacteria enters your bloodstream, leading to health problems you could have avoided with proper oral care.
Is fluoride good for my teeth?
Yes, fluoride is a great, natural tool to fight tooth decay. Most toothpastes and some mouthwashes include fluoride to clean your mouth. It’s also found in drinking water, so you can always get protection for your teeth. During your dental checkup our dentists can suggest ways to get enough fluoride.
Is too much fluoride bad for my teeth?
Consuming too much fluoride can sometimes cause cosmetic issues known as fluorosis. This only occurs in young children under 8 years of age. The only indication of fluorosis is mild discoloration of the teeth. It does not cause any functional problems or damage the teeth.
Can I schedule a dental checkup if I don't have dental insurance?
Yes, we encourage patients without dental insurance to get regular checkups. We offer financing plans and discounts so all our patients can get affordable dental care no matter their insurance situation.
Do adults need annual dental checkups?
Yes, adult dental care is incredibly important for long-term well-being. Many adults think they only need to see a dentist when they're in pain, but preventative checkups can find small oral health problems before they get worse and require an expensive procedure or surgery.
Do seniors need to visit the dentist more often?
Yes, seniors should go to the dentist on a regular basis. As we age, teeth and gums can begin to weaken. This leaves the mouth susceptible to disease. Preventative dentistry checkups lead to early solutions to protect your teeth as you age.
