Preventive Dentistry

In Monument

We get it, it can be a bit too easy to put off your biannual dental exam and we don't blame you, life gets busy! But remember, skipping your appointments can cost even more time and money in the future. Coming in twice a year allows us to catch small issues before they become time-consuming, expensive problems. Regular check-ups only take about an hour and we assure you that we will make it a comfortable process. Let's keep that smile of yours healthy with our excellent preventive services.

Teeth Cleanings‍

Regular teeth cleanings and hygiene appointments are the foundation of preventive dental care. During your cleaning, we will thoroughly cleanse your teeth and gums, removing any plaque or debris from every surface in your mouth. You’ll even be able to reverse minor stains to keep your smile bright and beautiful. We recommend scheduling routine cleanings and exams every six months for most patients.

Oral Hygiene

However, good oral hygiene shouldn’t stop when you leave our office. Keeping up with your at-home brushing and flossing routine is equally as important as attending professional cleanings, and is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Use a fluoride-rich toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time; and don’t forget to floss! Flossing at least once every day, ideally before going to bed, helps to get rid of food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can’t be removed with brushing alone.

Digital X-Rays & Advanced Imaging

At Monument Family Dentistry, we’re committed to providing the best care possible, which is why we use the latest digital technology to ensure precise, efficient diagnostics while keeping your comfort and health a top priority.

Digital Dental X-Rays

Routine bitewings and low-radiation imaging are essential tools we use to monitor your oral health. Digital X-rays provide clear, detailed images of your teeth and bone structure, allowing us to detect issues early, from cavities to infections, with minimal radiation exposure. These images help us develop the most effective treatment plans for your unique needs.

Advanced Imaging

In addition to digital X-rays, we offer advanced imaging techniques that take your care to the next level. These high-definition images provide a detailed, 3D view of your teeth, gums, and bone structure. With advanced imaging, we can plan and perform treatments with greater precision and less invasive procedures, ensuring a smoother experience and faster recovery times.

Fluoride treatments are one of the best ways to keep dental decay at bay. A simple, non-invasive procedure, fluoride treatments help to keep your enamel strong. After your cleaning, we’ll apply a fluoride-rich varnish or gel; we may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes or so following your visit. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel, making it more resistant to acids from plaque, bacteria, and sugary foods that cause cavities.

While often associated with children's dentistry, adults can benefit just as much from this proven preventive treatment. Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the deep grooves of your back teeth where decay often starts. Even with diligent brushing, these microscopic crevices can trap food and bacteria. Dental sealants create a smooth, protective barrier that's nearly invisible and can last for years, significantly reducing your risk of cavities. It's a quick, painless procedure that can save you time and money by preventing more extensive dental work down the road. If you're cavity-prone or want to take a proactive approach to your dental health, ask us about whether sealants could be right for you.

We focus on keeping your gums healthy through personalized periodontal care designed to prevent, detect, and treat gum disease. From routine cleanings and thorough evaluations to advanced treatment options, we’re here to support every stage of your oral health. By combining patient education with a whole-health approach, we help you maintain not just a healthy smile—but overall wellness.

While the thought of oral surgery and periodontal care may seem daunting, laser dentistry has revolutionized the way in which these procedures are performed. Our soft-tissue laser utilizes a highly-focused beam of light to perform a wide variety of treatments and can be used in place of more invasive methods for more comfort and faster recoveries. Get in touch with us today to find out laser dentistry can benefit you!

Say goodbye to noisy, anxiety-inducing dental drills, and say hello to the future of dental care. All-tissue laser therapy offers unparalleled precision for a full range of restorative treatments like root canals and fillings, all without pain. They can also reduce bleeding and eliminate pain, resulting in faster recovery times and more a more comfortable experience for you.

Oral cancer screenings are a part of every preventive visit, and are a quick way to fortify your peace of mind. Through consistent exams, we can catch oral cancer early on, which gives us a better chance at treating it before it spreads. A routine oral cancer screening can even save your life!

Your dentist will examine your gums, tongue, and the rest of the soft tissues in your mouth, keeping an eye out for lesions and other abnormalities like lumps and discolorations. If there is anything that concerns us, we may recommend getting a biopsy, which will be analyzed by a specialist to determine the cause of the abnormality. Regular oral cancer screenings allow us to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

At Monument Family Dentistry, we know that your oral health goes beyond routine care. That’s why we offer a variety of protective appliances designed to keep your smile safe during everyday activities and while you sleep. Whether you’re protecting your teeth from grinding at night or shielding them during sports, we’ve got you covered.

Occlusal Guards

Occlusal guards, also known as bite splints, are designed to help with teeth grinding and jaw clenching. These protective appliances are typically worn at night to prevent the damage caused by bruxism (unconscious grinding). By creating a comfortable barrier between your upper and lower teeth, occlusal guards can protect your enamel and help prevent headaches and jaw pain caused by grinding.

Sports Guards

Sports can be tough on your teeth, which is why we offer custom sports guards to protect against injury during athletic activities. Whether you’re playing football, basketball, or any other contact sport, a custom-fit sports guard ensures your teeth stay safe and your smile remains intact, no matter how intense the game gets.

‍