Toothache is often a sign that a problem has been developing for a while. Preventive care aims to reduce the chance of problems starting, or to find them early when treatment is usually simpler.
At home
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals.
At the dental practice

- Check-ups: to detect decay, gum disease and other changes early.
- Scale and clean: removes plaque and tartar that brushing cannot. Read more about teeth cleaning.
- Fluoride treatment: helps strengthen enamel.
- Fissure sealants: protect the grooves of back teeth, often recommended for children.
- X-rays when needed, to see between teeth and below the gum.
- Mouthguards for contact sports.
If a cavity is found
Small cavities can often be repaired with a filling before they cause pain or need more involved treatment.
Read more about preventive dentistry at North Ryde Dentistry.
Related articles
- The Principles of Preventive Dentistry
- Basic vs Major Dental Care: What Is the Difference?
- Dental Check-Ups in North Ryde: What to Expect
This article is general information only and does not replace advice from your own dentist. Whether a treatment is suitable for you can only be decided after an examination. All dental treatment carries risks, and results vary from person to person.