what is
preventative care

preventing problems
before they start

The health of your teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of your entire body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting your dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful.

a woman sitting in a dental chair

preventative
care benefits

the exam

During your exam, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. Your dentist may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Whether these X-rays are traditional or digital, the images provided will help your dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.

routine exams & cleanings can:

  • Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath
  • Save money by avoiding costly and extensive dental procedures
  • Keep your teeth white by reducing staining from food and drinks
  • Shorten the time spent in your dentist's office
  • Have a smile that will last a lifetime

How it
works

inspecting your teeth for cavities

Your dental hygienist will begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to determine if you have any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring.

gentle cleaning

Next, your hygienist will carefully clean your teeth with a variety of tools to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. Then your hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing compound and apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren't painful, but if you have any anxiety about your dental exam, be sure to let your hygienist know. He or she may offer several sedation options to ensure your comfort.

checking your brushing & flossing routine

If your dentist or hygienist finds tooth decay or gum disease, they will talk to you about changing your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments. If your teeth and gums appear to be healthy, your dentist will probably recommend that you continue your brushing and flossing routine as usual.

Simple ways to prevent
plaque buildup & cavities

brushing

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also, be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!

flossing

Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

healthy diet

Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.

routine cleanings

Remember to schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.

dental sealants

Ask your dentist about dental sealants, a protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.

mouth guards

If you play sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouthguards designed to protect your smile.

Have been using them for the last year and a half. Went in yesterday for a crown. All the employees are nice and Dr. Orza does a great job. Highly recommend!

Justin M.

Dr. Stephanie and Anna are excellent! From my 1st visit to have a crown.. what a way to start! They have been great! I've since had all routine dental done, whitening and another crown. They are knowledgeable, experienced, patient, I wish I could give more than 5 stars, they are the best!

Kim A.

Last week I had Dr. Orza perform a much-needed root canal along with the crown. Maybe I should have started off by saying I was dreading this procedure, as I have heard so many stories from other places. After getting it done I can honestly say that 1st Choice Dental and Dr. Orza have blown my expectations away. The procedure was quick and 100% completely painless. I have had hair cuts that hurt more. I highly recommend to anyone looking for great dental care to check out 1st Choice Dental Care and Dr. Orza

Douglas W.

Yesterday I had an emergency root canal with Dr. Orza and it could not have been a better experience.... except of course not needing one... however the service was top notch and so quick and thankfully pain-free. Dr. Orza was able to alleviate my pain and perform the root canal quickly and I felt nothing during the procedure! Heather and Carla prepped me for the procedure and were so sweet and helpful! I would and have recommended 1st Choice to anyone I know!

Ciara C.

Friendly and did a great job on my filling and crown. Gentle and caring.

Susi S.

I had an excellent experience at 1st Choice Dental today. Stephanie, Dawn and Anna and all of the staff were very friendly and explained each procedure to my understanding. I had the deep cleaning done today. It was painless. I have had crowns done in the past and they do excellent work.

Kathy M.

I just had the periodontal scaling and could not have asked for better care if my own mother had done the procedure!!!

Jennifer B.

The whole office is great. They worked with my insurance company and me to help me get the dental work done. They explained everything and are friendly.

Tara P.

Friendly staff...went in for a root canal and came out with no pain...they were able to fit me in last minute...so far no complaints.

Jackie P.

Excellent service. No waiting, I called on a Tuesday and had a scheduled appointment for a root canal on Wednesday. The office is very clean and the staff is friendly and attentive. I did not experience any pain during my procedure.

Cynthia J.

I have tried a lot of different dental offices but found this one to fit all my needs. Dr. Orza is extremely thorough, willing to educate and has a good sense of humor. I had to get a lot of work done, but they made the process easy. From the x-rays to the cleaning, the fillings, the crowns, and insurance coverage, everything went seamlessly. The office is brand new and kept tidy. The staff was professional and friendly.

Misha H.

A speedy check-in with limited paperwork that got down right down to the necessary information for a first visit. My appointment started on time which I really liked. Dr. Emil was concerned about my tooth which was chipped and completed the work quickly without trying to upsell me on a root canal that I did need as another dentist office did that I went to. I don't live close to the Kennesaw office and it was worth every mile! Thanks, Dr. Emil and your staff for their great care!

LaDell W.

First-time patients and we loved them! Everything was clean and everyone was very nice! They did a wonderful job with the cleanings and my husband's crown. Quick and painless! I would recommend this place to everyone!

Amy E.

I recently visited First Choice to fill several cavities and to be fitted for a nightguard. What could've been a dreadful experience was wonderful! Dr. Orza, Dawn, and Karla took great care of me. I was out in less than an hour. Everyone at this office is kind and helpful. I highly recommend visiting First Choice for any kind of dental procedure.

Kristin C.

This is my favorite dentist office ever! I've been with them since I moved to Georgia 5 years ago. They are all so friendly and always do a great job. Emily and Dr. Stephanie Fransoso are amazing. The office is clean and nice too. Dr Orza is great too. He did a root canal and found the source of some horrible pain. Everyone in the front is so friendly, especially Shelbi.

Karen S.