Jennifer had been putting off her dental cleaning for over a year, convincing herself that her teeth felt fine and she was too busy to schedule an appointment. When she finally visited Roman Dental Arts in Hackensack for what she thought would be a routine cleaning, Dr. Alissa Roman discovered early signs of gum disease and a small cavity that could have become a major problem. “I had no idea,” Jennifer said, grateful that preventive care had caught these issues before they became painful and expensive.
At Roman Dental Arts, Dr. Donald Roman and Dr. Alissa Roman believe that preventive dentistry is the foundation of excellent oral health for Hackensack families. As a father-daughter team serving the local community for years, we’ve seen how regular preventive care can save patients from complex dental problems, preserve their natural teeth, and maintain their confident smiles throughout their lives.
The Foundation of Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining optimal oral health through regular care, early detection, and patient education rather than waiting to treat problems after they develop. This proactive approach includes routine cleanings, comprehensive examinations, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and personalized oral hygiene instruction. By addressing potential issues in their earliest stages, preventive dentistry helps Hackensack patients avoid more extensive and costly treatments later.
The cornerstone of our preventive program at Roman Dental Arts is the comprehensive dental examination, where Dr. Donald and Dr. Alissa thoroughly assess your teeth, gums, bite, jaw joints, and oral tissues. We use advanced diagnostic tools to detect problems that may not yet be causing symptoms, allowing us to intervene early when treatment is most effective. This thorough approach ensures nothing is overlooked and helps us create a personalized prevention plan.
Professional Cleanings and Examinations
Regular professional cleanings at Roman Dental Arts go far beyond what you can achieve with brushing and flossing at home. Our skilled dental hygienists use specialized instruments to remove hardened dental plaque and tartar from areas that are difficult to reach, especially along the gumline and between teeth. These thorough cleanings help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath while keeping your smile bright and healthy.
During your examination, Dr. Roman or Dr. Alissa will carefully check each tooth for signs of decay, examine your gums for inflammation, and assess your bite alignment. We also perform oral cancer screenings and evaluate your jaw joints for any signs of dysfunction. For Hackensack patients, we recommend cleanings and examinations every six months, though some patients may benefit from more frequent visits.
Advanced Preventive Technologies
Roman Dental Arts utilizes the latest preventive technologies to provide Hackensack patients with the most effective care possible. Our digital X-rays provide detailed images with significantly less radiation exposure than traditional film X-rays, allowing us to detect problems between teeth and below the gumline. We also use intraoral cameras to show you exactly what we see, helping you understand your oral health and the importance of recommended treatments.
We recommend regular hygiene visits at least every six months for healthy patients and four preventive visits for patients with gum disease or other advanced needs. For patients at higher risk for tooth decay, we offer fluoride treatments and dental sealants as additional protective measures. Sealants are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers, creating a protective barrier over the chewing surfaces of back teeth where cavities commonly develop. Our team will discuss these preventive options with you and recommend the most appropriate treatments based on your individual risk factors and oral health status.
Gum Disease Prevention and Treatment
Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems affecting Hackensack adults, yet it’s also one of the most preventable with proper care. At Roman Dental Arts, we focus heavily on gum health because we know that healthy gums are essential for keeping your natural teeth for life. Early gum disease, called gingivitis, is completely reversible with professional treatment and improved home care, but advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Our preventive approach to gum disease includes thorough cleanings, patient education about proper brushing and flossing techniques, and regular monitoring of your gum health. For patients showing early signs of gum disease, we may recommend more frequent cleanings or specialized treatments to restore gum health. Dr. Roman and Dr. Alissa work closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan for maintaining healthy gums throughout their life.
Oral Health Education and Home Care
At Roman Dental Arts, we believe that education is a crucial component of preventive dentistry. During your visits, our team takes time to discuss proper brushing and flossing techniques, recommend oral care products that are best for your specific needs, and answer any questions you may have about maintaining your oral health at home. We understand that every patient’s situation is different, and we tailor our recommendations accordingly.
We also provide guidance on lifestyle factors that can impact your oral health, such as diet, smoking cessation, and managing teeth grinding or clenching. For Hackensack families, we offer age-appropriate education for children, helping them develop good oral hygiene habits early in life. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to maintain excellent oral health between visits to our office.
The Roman Dental Arts Preventive Advantage
Don’t wait for dental problems to develop when you can prevent them with regular care from Hackensack’s trusted dental team. Dr. Donald Roman and Dr. Alissa Roman are committed to helping you and your family maintain healthy, beautiful smiles through personalized preventive care that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Call us today at (201) 843-0440 to schedule your preventive care appointment or complete our online contact form to take the first step toward optimal oral health. As a father-daughter team serving Hackensack families for years, we make preventive dentistry convenient, comfortable, and effective. Contact Roman Dental Arts today and discover how preventive care can keep your smile healthy for life.
FAQs About Preventive Dentistry in Hackensack, NJ
How often should I schedule preventive dental visits?
Most patients benefit from dental exams and cleanings every six months. However, if you have gum disease, diabetes, or a history of frequent cavities, you may need more frequent visits every 3-4 months. During your first visit, Dr. Donald J. Roman and Dr. Alissa M. Roman will create a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs.
What’s included in a preventive dental exam at Roman Dental Arts?
Our comprehensive preventive exams include professional teeth cleaning, plaque and tartar removal, oral cancer screening, digital X-rays when needed, fluoride treatment (if recommended), and personalized oral hygiene education. We also assess your gums, teeth, jaw, and oral tissues using modern diagnostic tools, like 3D imaging.
Are dental sealants worth it for my child?
Yes! Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to your child’s back molars to prevent decay. They’re especially beneficial for children and teens who are still developing proper brushing habits. Sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in treated teeth and typically last several years.
What age should my child first visit the dentist?
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. At Roman Dental Arts, we specialize in gentle pediatric care and focus on making your child’s first dental experiences positive and comfortable.
Do you accept dental insurance for preventive care?
We work with most major dental insurance plans, including Delta and Cigna. Most insurance plans cover preventive services like cleanings and exams at 100%. Our team can verify your benefits and provide a cost estimate before any treatment. We also offer flexible payment options for your convenience.
What if I haven’t been to the dentist in several years?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to restart preventive care! During your first visit back, we’ll perform a thorough evaluation, address any immediate concerns, and create a gentle treatment plan to get your oral health back on track. Our experienced team makes the process comfortable and non-judgmental.
How do preventive dental visits save money in the long run?
Preventive care helps catch small issues before they become major problems. For example, treating a small cavity costs much less than waiting until you need a root canal or crown. Regular cleanings also prevent gum disease, which can lead to costly treatments if left untreated.
What makes Roman Dental Arts different from other dental practices?
We’re a multi-generational, family-owned practice with over 38 years of experience serving Hackensack and Bergen County. Our father-daughter dental team (Dr. Donald J. Roman and Dr. Alissa M. Roman) combines decades of expertise with state-of-the-art technology like laser dentistry and digital imaging. We offer personalized care in a comfortable environment with free parking.