Preventive Dentistry – Fort Mill, SC

Caring for Smiles of All Ages

Dentists reviewing dental x-rays before preventive dentistry visit

About 95% of adults in the U.S. have had at least one cavity, and tooth decay is incredibly common among kids. To keep your family’s smiles cavity-free, it’s important to visit us at Southlake Family Dentistry at least twice a year. During these appointments, Dr. Priya Chougule takes the time to carefully examine your smile and individually personalize your care. This proactive approach to oral health helps our team stop minor issues from becoming major headaches down the road, saving you time and money overall. Call us today to set up your appointment for preventive dentistry in Fort Mill, SC!

 

Why Choose Southlake Family Dentistry for Preventive Dentistry?

  • Personalized, One-on-One Care from an Experienced Dentist
  • We Take Our Time – No Rushed Appointments!
  • Sedation Dentistry Options Available to Soothe Nerves

Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings 

Dentist and patient looking at smile model during dental checkup and teeth cleaning visit

Cavities and gum disease often go unnoticed in their early stages; by the time they start displaying symptoms, they have likely been around for a while! Your six-month dental checkups give Dr. Chougule the chance to take X-rays and look over your teeth and gums to detect oral health concerns you might not have felt yet. We can also give your teeth a thorough cleaning to remove built-up plaque, leaving your smile healthier and more refreshed.

Fluoride Treatments 

Dental patient receiving fluoride treatment

Fluoride is a mineral that is vital in maintaining great oral health. It not only restores weakened tooth enamel, but it can also reverse the early stages of tooth decay. Most people get plenty of fluoride through the foods they eat, their drinking water, and their toothpaste, but if you could use a little extra cavity protection, then we can apply a topical fluoride gel as part of your routine visits.

Dental Sealants 

Animated smile with dental sealants

You might have noticed that your molars (back teeth) have tiny grooves, and they are the perfect places for bacteria and bits of food to get trapped. Children in particular often have trouble cleaning these teeth, putting them at a higher risk for decay. To protect them, we can apply a thin plastic coating called a dental sealant. The sealant creates a barrier above the tooth’s grooves, minimizing the risk that food debris could get stuck and attract cavity-causing bacteria.

Custom Nightguards for Teeth Grinding 

Patient placing a custom nightguard for teeth grinding

If you often wake up with a sore jaw or a headache for seemingly no reason, you might be unknowingly grinding your teeth in your sleep. Left unchecked, chronic teeth grinding (a condition called bruxism) can inflict serious wear and tear on your teeth. Dr. Chougule can check for signs of bruxism during your exams, and if need be, we can take impressions of your mouth to design a custom nightguard that shields your teeth from harmful contact while you rest.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Dentist holding an oral cancer awareness ribbon

Oral cancer has a lower survival rate than many other forms of cancer, and that’s largely due to it often going undiagnosed until it has progressed to the later stages. To increase your chances of successfully finding and treating this disease early, Dr. Chougule meticulously screens for signs of oral cancer (such as strange lumps or slow-healing sores) during your checkups. If she detects anything concerning, she can arrange for you to get a proper diagnosis from an expert.