Tooth decay and gum disease are two of the most common oral health problems. You can fight them effectively at home by maintaining an consistent daily oral hygiene routine, including:
- Brushing your teeth – After every meal, with a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled tooth brush.
- Flossing – At least once (preferably twice) every day.
Taking these steps at home will keep your teeth free of most plaque and food particles. However, even the best at-home hygiene routine cannot replace regular cleanings and dental exams performed by a dentist. You should have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months to ensure that tartar and other substances are completely removed from your teeth and the lining of your gums. Our dental exams will also help us pinpoint any problems before they escalate into major issues.
Professional Care for Your Teeth
Dr. Gross combines manual evaluations with state-of-the-art dental technology – including digital x-rays and DIAGNOdent – to detect common oral health issues and provide prompt solutions. By keeping up with these appointments, you can avoid needing more involved dental work in the future, such as root canal therapy or tooth extractions. Prompt detection of gum disease may also be helpful in reducing your risk of other health problems, including heart disease and hypertension.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your twice-yearly visits to our office also give Dr. Gross a chance to detect oral cancer in its earliest stages. Over 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year, and over a quarter of new cases occur in people with no risk factors. When detected early, oral cancer is among the most treatable cancers of its kind. Unfortunately, nearly half of the people diagnosed with this disease find out too late for effective treatment.
Dr. Gross uses ViziLite® Plus to screen patients for oral cancer. Using a special dye and light, ViziLite® Plus allows Dr. Gross to spot abnormal tissue in the mouth long before it is visible to the human eye. During your regularly scheduled teeth cleanings and examinations, Dr. Gross can discuss this lifesaving technology with you in more detail.
If you are looking for the most comprehensive dental care available, please contact Dr. Timothy Gross today to schedule your first appointment. We serve patients in the Hilton Head Island and Bluffton areas of South Carolina.
