When it comes to dentists, you might notice that there are many different types to choose from. The basic type you need is a general dentist, also called a family dentist, as this type of dentist focuses mainly on preventative dentistry. Preventative dentistry is vital for the health of your mouth, and here are some reasons why it is so important.

Preventing problems keeps your mouth healthier

While there are dental procedures designed to fix just about any type of problem you may have with your teeth, gums, and mouth, fixing a problem is much more difficult than preventing a problem. Preventing problems also keeps your mouth a lot healthier, and it keeps your teeth stronger. The goal of preventative dentistry is to help you care for your teeth and gums in ways that help you avoid and prevent problems with your teeth. Because of this, preventative dentistry encourages people to come every six months to have their teeth examined, cleaned, and x-rayed. If you keep up with this schedule and have good daily habits with cleaning your teeth, you may never have to experience a cavity or any other type of oral problem.

Assessing risks helps you locate problems early on

The second purpose of preventative dentistry is to help people find issues with their teeth and gums when the issues are just beginning. When a cavity, for example, just starts to form, it is a lot less damaging to a tooth if you get it fixed right away rather than if you wait for months or years to have it repaired. Fixing small problems is a much better solution, so your dentist will assess the risks you have in your mouth during your exam. By doing this, you can take the right steps to prevent small issues from developing into big ones.

You can save money, time, and stress through preventative dentistry

Finally, preventing problems with your mouth will be beneficial to you in three main ways. First of all, it will help you save money. Secondly, you will save time, as you will not need to go through lengthy dental procedures. Finally, it will reduce your stress, as going through a major dental procedure can be frightening and overwhelming for a lot of people.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can protect your teeth, you should consider scheduling a visit to a general dentist today. This is a great step for you to take for your oral care health and wellbeing.