How often should I get a dental exam and cleaning?
Most people do well with visits every six months. If you have gum disease, dry mouth, a high cavity rate, or wear braces, we may recommend more frequent cleanings.
Keep your smile strong for life with gentle, proactive care at Ohana Dental. Our friendly team focuses on prevention first—so you spend less time in the chair, avoid costly treatment, and enjoy a healthy, confident smile. Call us for convenient appointments at our Kahala at , Kahului at , or Waipahu at locations.
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is a proactive approach that protects your teeth and gums before problems start. It includes regular exams, professional cleanings, fluoride, sealants, and custom-made guards to prevent wear and injury. With routine visits and personalized home-care coaching, we catch small issues early—often before you can feel them. The result: fewer surprises, shorter appointments, and better long-term oral health.
Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
- Stronger, healthier teeth for the long term: Routine cleanings and fluoride strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of decay, chips, and sensitivity.
- Early detection saves time and money: Comprehensive exams and digital imaging help us spot cavities, cracks, and gum issues early—often while they’re easy and affordable to treat.
- Cleaner mouth, fresher breath: Professional cleanings remove tartar and bacteria your toothbrush can’t reach, improving gum health and breath.
- Personalized protection for your lifestyle: From sealants for kids to night guards for grinders and mouth guards for athletes, we tailor prevention to how you live.
- More comfortable visits: Our efficient, compassionate approach keeps appointments smooth and shorter, so you can get back to your day with a healthy smile.
Why Choose Ohana Dental?
- Friendly, honest care you can trust: We listen first, explain clearly, and recommend only what you need. Patients choose us for our compassionate, non-judgmental approach and great reviews.
- Advanced technology for precise, efficient visits: With 3D CBCT imaging, digital X-rays, and digital scanning, we diagnose accurately and plan care with fewer appointments and no goopy impressions.
- Comfort-first experience: From gentle techniques to modern chairs and a calm environment, we make preventive visits easy—even if it’s been a while since your last cleaning.
- Easy to reach locations: Find us at your convenient location in Kahala, Kahului, and Waipahu.
Ready to protect your smile? Call your nearest Ohana Dental location to book a preventive visit or request a consultation online: Kahala-, Kahului-, or Waipahu- location.
Services Offered
- Comprehensive Oral Examination: We perform a thorough review of your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw joints, along with oral cancer screening. Digital X-rays and, when appropriate, CBCT 3D imaging help us find hidden issues like early decay, cracks, impacted teeth, or bone changes. You’ll leave with a clear care plan tailored to your goals.
- Dental Cleaning & Exams: Our hygienists remove plaque and hardened tartar from above and below the gumline to reduce inflammation and prevent gum disease. We polish your teeth, review home-care techniques, and track gum health over time. Regular cleanings every six months (or as recommended) keep your smile bright and healthy.
- Dental Sealants: Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the deep grooves of back teeth where cavities often start—especially in kids and teens. The process is quick, painless, and helps block bacteria and food from settling in hard-to-clean pits. Sealants can last for years and reduce the risk of decay.
- Fluoride Treatment: Professional fluoride re-mineralizes enamel and helps prevent cavities in both children and adults. It’s especially helpful if you experience sensitivity, dry mouth, or a history of frequent decay. Treatments take only a few minutes and provide months of extra protection.
- Custom Mouth Guards: If you play contact or high-impact sports, a custom athletic mouth guard can reduce the risk of chipped or knocked-out teeth, lip injuries, and jaw trauma. Our guards are made from precise digital scans for a snug, comfortable fit and better protection than store-bought options.
- Custom Night Guards: Grinding or clenching (bruxism) can cause tooth wear, cracks, jaw pain, and headaches. A custom night guard cushions your teeth and helps protect your enamel and restorations while you sleep. We design your guard for comfort and durability, improving both oral health and sleep quality.
Your Visit: What to Expect
- Warm welcome and quick check-in: Our team confirms your health history and listens to your concerns—whether you’re here for a first visit, a cleaning, or a second opinion.
- Thorough screening: We assess your teeth, gums, bite, and oral cancer risk; take digital X-rays as needed; and recommend CBCT 3D imaging if it will improve diagnosis.
- Gentle, efficient cleaning: We remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and review personalized home-care tips that fit your routine.
- Clear plan and next steps: You’ll get honest guidance, cost estimates when appropriate, and a preventive schedule that works for you.
Preventive Dentistry for Every Stage of Life
- Kids and Teens: Sealants, fluoride, and cleanings help prevent cavities during cavity-prone years. We coach proper brushing and flossing in simple steps.
- Adults: Regular exams, periodontal maintenance when needed, and night guards protect enamel, gums, and restorations. We monitor changes due to stress, diet, and medications.
- Seniors: Prevention focuses on gum health, dry mouth management, decay prevention around existing dental work, and comfortable cleaning around bridges, implants, and dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry
Do I really need fluoride as an adult?
Yes, many adults benefit from fluoride. It strengthens enamel, helps prevent root cavities, reduces sensitivity, and protects areas around fillings, crowns, and bridges.
Are dental sealants only for children?
Sealants are most common for kids and teens, but adults with deep grooves or a history of cavities can benefit as well. We’ll let you know if you’re a good candidate.
What’s the difference between a store-bought mouth guard and a custom guard?
Boil-and-bite guards are one-size-fits-most and can feel bulky or loose. Custom guards are made from digital scans for a precise fit, better protection, and improved comfort.
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Common signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, flattened or chipped teeth, and tooth sensitivity. We can spot wear patterns during your exam and recommend a custom night guard if needed.
Is CBCT 3D imaging safe?
Yes. CBCT uses a low dose of radiation and provides detailed 3D information when 2D X-rays aren’t enough. We recommend it only when it adds clear diagnostic value.
What can I do at home to prevent cavities and gum disease?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and drink plenty of water—especially after meals. Limit frequent snacking and sugary drinks, and schedule regular dental visits.
I’m nervous about dental visits. Can you help?
Absolutely. Our team is friendly, patient, and non-judgmental. We explain each step, offer a calm environment, and use gentle techniques to keep you comfortable. Nitrous oxide is available at our Kahala office for added ease.
