How can we help you?
At Peak Family Dentistry, we always have time to answer your questions and address your concerns. Below, we have compiled the questions we hear most often from our patients. If you have a question not covered here, or if you would like further information, contact our dental office today.
Pediatric Dentistry
Risk-based preventive dentistry means prevention is tailored to the patient's actual risk factors. We consider cavity history, gum health, oral pH, dry mouth, medications, diet, home care, fluoride exposure, exposed roots, orthodontic appliances, medical factors, and other issues that may affect oral health.
Depending on the patient's needs, preventive care may include cleanings, periodontal maintenance, fluoride treatment, fluoridated toothpaste guidance along with lesser-effective non-fluoridated options, SDF for appropriate cases, PerioMate erythritol polishing, oral hygiene coaching, salivary or pH considerations, and a personalized home-care plan.
SDF may be used when appropriate as a caries-arresting medicament and desensitizer. It can help manage certain areas of decay or sensitivity, but it is not the right choice for every situation. Patients should know that SDF will stain diseased tooth structure where it is applied; therefore, we usually recommend this for back teeth or non-visible areas only.
Saliva helps buffer acids, protect tooth structure, and support a healthier oral environment. Dry mouth, medications, medical conditions, diet, or changes in oral pH can increase cavity risk. Understanding these factors helps us recommend prevention that fits the patient.
The right interval depends on the patient's risk. Some patients do well with routine six-month visits. Others with periodontal disease, high cavity risk, dry mouth, medical complexity, or special needs may benefit from a more customized maintenance schedule. Many of our patients opt to visit us every four months for preventive maintenance, and we often see less disease in these patients and catch problems earlier.
