Preventive Dentistry

Dental cleanings

During your hygiene appointments at Saanich Dental Group, a trained hygienist will first remove all plaque and tartar that builds up on your teeth using professional-grade tools and remove harmful oral bacteria from your mouth. Continued formation of plaque and tartar can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If you have an excessive buildup of tartar that extends beyond the gum line, you may need to have a deep cleaning performed.

The second part of your cleaning is the polish which removes surface stains on your teeth. These cleanings are critical to avoid common dental issues like cavities and periodontal disease. Our friendly, compassionate dental hygienists will make you feel at ease throughout your entire cleaning, and your smile will look and feel its best by the time you leave the office.

Fluoride treatment

During a fluoride treatment, we apply a highly concentrated gel directly to your teeth. The process is completely non-invasive and painless, and can help patients of all ages avoid cavities. Bonus: fluoride applications can also help reduce cold sensitivity for several months.

Non-invasive alternatives

Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver Diamine Fluoride is a liquid containing ingredients such as silver and fluoride. These substances have unique properties that kill cavity-causing bacteria and promote the healthy remineralization of tooth enamel. This treatment is ideal for children or geriatric patients and offers a non-invasive alternative to fillings for repairing certain cavities. The SDF solution will be applied directly on the surface of the cavity, and once it dries, the tooth is painted with a fluoride varnish. This process can halt tooth decay, making it an ideal option for some patients.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are another highly effective preventive treatment to protect the back molars from cavities. Treatment involves the application of a small, thin layer of plastic resin. This layer of resin is painted onto the teeth after they have been cleaned. This treatment is typically recommended for children or other patients who are at high risk of developing cavities.

Oral Cancer Screenings

At Saanich Dental Group, one of the modern tools we use to help detect the presence of cancerous tissues is the VELscope® Vx. The Velscope is a handheld non-invasive device that uses fluorescent visualization technology to detect abnormalities in your oral tissues. The VELscope is a useful screening tool in Victoria, BC to assist your dentist in the early detection of a potential disease and to initiate proper treatment.