Preventive Dentistry in the Heart of Melbourne
Collaboration is Key
Preventive dentistry is a collaborative effort between you and your dentist. It calls for a proactive approach to your oral care. In other words, taking steps today to help prevent dental health issues tomorrow.
At Dimos Dental we are committed to your long-term oral health and aim to provide the services you need to limit future dental problems. Your part requires an excellent oral care schedule at home as this will only complement your preventive dentistry visits. In other words, the collaborative effort between yourself and us is essential to the health of your mouth and even body.
Preventive dentistry considers the schedules and treatments you need to help maintain your smile and to avoid dental health problems. In other words, we want to lower your risks for cavities, infections and gum disease.
Preventive dentistry services include but are not limited to;
- Regular dental exams to monitor and diagnose any oral health issues
- Routine X-rays to have a look between teeth and below their surface
- Professional teeth cleaning to remove bacteria and calculus
- Fissure sealants to seal off grooves and protect teeth from debris and bacteria
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth against decay
Frequently Asked Questions
X-rays show us your teeth and jaw bone from the inside out, and as a result help us to ensure that problems which cannot be seen clinically aren't going undiagnosed. Without x-rays, problems such as decay, bone-loss and infections can go undetected.
The type of x-ray we take will depend on the condition for which you are being assessed. With this being said, we encourage routine diagnostic x-rays every 2-3 years as per the Australian Dental Guidelines to ensure a comprehensive dental assessment.
Although dental x-rays involve radiation, it is at a very low and safe level which is proven time and time again through extensive research. In fact, you are exposed to higher levels of radiation in day-to-day life than you are from your dental x-rays.
Fluoride is not a medication, but rather a naturally occurring mineral most commonly found in air, soil, rock, plants and water; it is considered the most important mineral in the prevention and treatment of tooth decay.
Tooth decay occurs when acid produced by harmful bacteria attacks the surface of the tooth.
A constant low-level supply of fluoride is best to inhibit this. Fluoride in your drinking water and toothpaste acts like a constant 'repair kit' for your teeth.
It is recommended that adults with healthy teeth and gums get their teeth cleaned every six months. However, your dentist or hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have certain risk factors like gum disease, a tendency to build up tartar quickly, or underlying health conditions.
Dental anxiety is very common. Here are some tips for management:
- Communicate openly: Talk to your dentist about your fears. They can explain procedures in detail and work with you to find ways to make you feel more comfortable.
- Relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing or guided meditation before and during your appointment.
- Distractions: Listen to music or a podcast during treatment.
- Ask about sedation options: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or anti-anxiety medication might be helpful for some patients.
Dental X-rays are crucial in allowing your dental clinicians to see what's happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Without this tool, problems can go undetected. X-rays can help identify:
- Cavities between teeth or under fillings
- Early signs of bone loss due to gum disease
- Abscesses or infections
- Impacted teeth, cysts, or other abnormalities
Meet Our Team:
Dr Christopher Dimos
Principal Dentist- BDSc (Melb), FIADFE
Chris was born in Melbourne and graduated as a dentist from the University of Melbourne in 1986. Having commenced clinical practice on Collins St in 1989, he has been a Melbourne CBD dental practitioner for over 30 years. Chris is personally interested in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, especially in the field of implants. His other passion lies in the area of facial aesthetics, of which he has been a speaker and trainer. Chris is committed to continuing education and ...
