Preventive Dentistry

At South Peters Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dr. Luke Hunley and our dedicated team are committed to providing excellence-driven preventive dental care to our patients in Knoxville, TN. Our goal is to help you maintain excellent oral health and prevent dental issues before they arise.

What is Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry covers a variety of dental care services aimed at keeping your smile healthy, preventing issues, and catching problems early on. By prioritizing prevention, we can assist you in steering clear of complicated and expensive dental treatments down the road. Regular checkups, cleanings, and early interventions are the foundation of preventive dentistry.

What to Expect at Your Preventive Dentistry Appointment

When you visit South Peters Dentistry for a preventive care appointment, you can expect a thorough and comfortable experience. Here's what typically happens:

Our friendly staff will greet you and be seated in one of our treatment rooms.

A skilled hygienist will professionally clean, take necessary X-rays, and conduct an initial assessment.

Dr. Hunley will perform a comprehensive exam and discuss any findings or concerns with you.

The appointment usually lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to address your oral health needs and answer any questions.

Preventive Dentistry Options

We offer a comprehensive range of preventive services to keep your smile healthy and bright:

Cleaning & Hygiene

Our professional dental cleanings in Knoxville go beyond what you can achieve at home. Our hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup, followed by polishing to leave your teeth feeling smooth and looking their best. We'll also provide personalized advice on improving your at-home oral care routine.

Digital X-rays

At South Peters Dentistry, we use state-of-the-art digital X-ray technology. These advanced X-rays provide detailed images with significantly less radiation exposure compared to traditional X-rays. They allow us to detect issues like cavities, bone loss and impacted teeth that aren't visible during a regular exam.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatments help strengthen your tooth enamel, making it more decay-resistant. This quick and painless procedure involves applying a fluoride solution to your teeth. It's particularly beneficial for patients at higher risk of cavities, including children and those with frequent decay, medications, or medical conditions.

Periodontal Care

Healthy gums are crucial for overall oral health. Our periodontal care services focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. We assess your gum health during each visit and provide treatments or recommendations as needed to maintain or improve it.

Night Guards

If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom-fitted night guard can protect your teeth from excessive wear and reduce associated symptoms like jaw pain and headaches. We'll take impressions of your teeth to create a comfortable, effective night guard tailored to your mouth.

Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause significant damage to your teeth over time. In addition to providing night guards, we'll work with you to identify potential causes of your bruxism and suggest strategies to reduce this habit, protecting your oral health in the long term.

Preventive Dentistry FAQs

  • How often should I have a dental checkup and cleaning?

    For most patients, we recommend checkups and cleanings every six months. However, depending on their oral health needs, some may need more frequent visits.

  • Are digital x-rays safe?

    Yes, digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays and are considered very safe.

  • At what age should children start having regular dental checkups?

    We recommend children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing.

  • Can preventive dentistry help me avoid more serious dental problems?

    Absolutely! Regular preventive care can help catch issues early when they're more accessible and less expensive to treat, potentially avoiding more serious problems.

  • Is fluoride treatment necessary for adults?

    While fluoride is especially important for developing teeth, adults can also benefit from fluoride treatments, particularly if they're at higher risk for cavities.

Schedule Your Next Checkup

Investing in preventive dentistry is one of the best things you can do for your oral health. By catching and addressing issues early, you can avoid more complex and costly treatments in the future. At South Peters Dentistry, we're committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for life.


Ready to prioritize your oral health? Schedule your preventive dentistry appointment with South Peters Dentistry today. Call us at 865-693-1047 to book your visit. Remember, a healthy smile starts with prevention!

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