One of the most effective ways to establish good preventive care is to come twice a year for regular check ups at Raton Family Dental. During these checkups, x-rays may be taken as needed, in addition to a thorough examination to check for pits and early signs of decay. Steps can then be taken to stop the decay and prevent the need for further intervention.

Other things we look for at Raton Family Dental during a regular check up are:

• signs of teeth grinding
• wearing of the tooth enamel
• cracks in the teeth
• infection or gum disease
• signs of oral cancer

Many people don't want to see a dentist on a regular basis and they typically only when they have a problem. This is reactive versus preventive. While some of these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in dollars and time, because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process.

An example is tooth decay. It is typical to hear from patients that they are not experiencing any noticeable pain or aches, but there is something present that needs attention. Tooth decay often does not hurt until it gets close to the nerve of the tooth. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a huge cavity who has never felt a thing. The dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms. This early detection can help you prevent root canal treatment or even extraction.