Your preventive care begins with a thorough examination. Dr. Alber or Dr. Llorente evaluates not just your teeth, but your gums, jaw joints, bite alignment, and soft tissues. Using digital X-rays that emit significantly less radiation than traditional films, we can identify problems developing beneath the surface or between teeth where visual inspection alone isn’t sufficient.
Professional teeth cleanings remove the hardened plaque and tartar that daily brushing and flossing can’t eliminate. Our experienced hygienists carefully clean above and below the gum line, removing the bacterial buildup that leads to cavities and periodontal disease. Many patients are surprised to learn that gum disease has been linked to serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes complications, and stroke risk.
Advanced Preventive Technologies
We utilize digital imaging and intraoral cameras that project real-time images onto a screen, allowing you to see exactly what we’re examining. This visual approach helps you understand your oral health status and any recommended treatments. Our policy is straightforward: we don’t recommend treatment unless we can show you a picture of what needs to be addressed and explain why it matters.
The practice also employs CBCT 3D imaging technology when more detailed views are necessary, providing comprehensive information that helps us deliver precise, conservative care. These advanced tools support our commitment to catching problems early while they remain manageable.
Protective Treatments That Prevent Problems
Beyond examinations and cleanings, several specific treatments strengthen your defenses against dental disease. Fluoride treatments provide an extra layer of protection for tooth enamel, particularly beneficial for patients with a history of frequent cavities or those experiencing dry mouth from medications. Professional fluoride applications deliver higher concentrations than over-the-counter products, offering superior cavity prevention.
Dental sealants create a protective barrier over the chewing surfaces of back teeth where decay often starts. These thin coatings seal the deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria accumulate, making these vulnerable areas easier to keep clean. While particularly effective for children and teenagers, adults with cavity-prone teeth also benefit from this simple preventive measure.
For patients who grind their teeth during sleep or participate in contact sports, custom mouthguards provide essential protection:
- Night guards cushion teeth against the damaging forces of bruxism, preventing excessive wear, fractures, and jaw discomfort.
- Sports guards protect against dental injuries during athletic activities, absorbing impact that could otherwise crack teeth or damage soft tissues.
- TMJ guards help manage temporomandibular joint disorders by promoting proper jaw alignment and reducing strain.
A closing sentence acknowledges the variety of protective options available based on individual needs.
Oral Cancer Screenings and Early Detection
Every preventive care visit includes a comprehensive oral cancer screening. Dr. Alber and Dr. Llorente examine your lips, tongue, throat, and other oral tissues for abnormalities that could indicate early-stage cancer. Detecting oral cancer in its initial stages dramatically improves treatment success rates and outcomes.
Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and HPV infection, though the disease can affect anyone. Regular screenings provide peace of mind and ensure any concerning changes receive prompt attention and appropriate referrals if needed.
Patient Education and Home Care Guidance
Effective preventive dentistry extends beyond our office. Our team provides personalized instruction on proper brushing and flossing techniques, helping you maximize the effectiveness of your daily routine. Many patients discover they’ve been using methods that miss certain areas or inadvertently damage their gums.
We discuss factors that impact your oral health, from dietary choices to medications that cause dry mouth. Understanding these connections empowers you to make informed decisions that support your dental health between visits. Our three Spanish-speaking team members ensure language is never a barrier to receiving a thorough education and excellent care.
Maintaining Your Preventive Care Schedule
Most patients benefit from professional cleanings and examinations every six months, though your specific needs may vary based on your oral health history and risk factors. Patients with gum disease, diabetes, or a tendency toward rapid tartar buildup often require more frequent visits to maintain optimal health.
Our membership plan offers a convenient way to manage preventive care costs if you don’t carry traditional dental insurance. This program covers routine examinations and cleanings with a predictable monthly payment, plus provides discounts on additional treatments you might need.
Schedule Your Preventive Dentistry Appointment at Alber Dental Studio
For over 26 years, Dr. Marc Alber has provided Boulder families with comprehensive dental care that prioritizes prevention and early intervention. Our practice combines the latest diagnostic technologies with a genuine commitment to understanding each patient’s unique concerns and goals. With convenient Friday appointments starting at 7 a.m. and sedation options available for anxious patients, we remove the common barriers that keep people from receiving the preventive care they need.
Whether you’re establishing care for yourself, looking for a practice that can treat your entire family, or simply overdue for a checkup, our team welcomes you. We accept CareCredit, Cherry, and Altheon with 0% financing options available for 24 months, making it easier to invest in your oral health. Contact our Boulder office today to schedule your comprehensive dental examination and start building the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.