Regular Dental Cleanings

It is recommended by the Academy of General Dentistry you have a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months.  Lis Bradley, DDS encourages her patients to maintain a great oral health routine at home, but it is still important to come into the office for regular professional cleanings.  However much you brush and floss, some harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that cause gum disease and can only be removed by a dental professional.

It’s important to see a professional regularly to locate and monitor areas in the mouth that may need special attention, and a dentist can tell you if you may be missing a spot or skipping an important step in your regular oral care routine.  During a teeth cleaning, a hygienist thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. After the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned, the hygienist flosses between every one of your teeth and may apply fluoride if recommended by the dentist.

To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services provided by Lis Bradley, DDS, visit www.lisbradleydds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS in Brentwood, TN, call 615-778-0810.

Sealants

Dental sealants are a preventative measure used to preserve the teeth and tooth enamel, and are the best defense against early tooth decay. Lis Bradley, DDS applies sealants for pediatric patients to protect their teeth and help them get the best start for a lifetime of great dental health.

Most tooth decay in children and teenagers occurs on the chewing surfaces of molars, where the pits and grooves tend to trap food and bacteria.  Molars first come in at 5-7 years of age, and a second set comes in between the ages of 11-14. It is best to have a sealant placed when the molars first come in to ensure they are protected early. 

Sealants are applied to surfaces of these molars just like paint. The plastic resin fills any pits and grooves on the surface and then hardens.  Now the surface is protected from bits of food being stuck and bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.  The sealant also protects tooth enamel from plaque and acids.  Sealants can effectively prevent cavities for up to ten years and can be reapplied of necessary.

To learn more about sealants and all the services provided at the practice, visit www.lisbradleydds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS in Brentwood, TN, call 615-778-0810.