Preventive Dentistry – Tukwila, WA

Keep Your Smile Healthier Longer

  • Disease prevention
  • Long-term cost savings
  • Improvement of overall health
  • Preservation of natural teeth
  • Promotion of healthy habits
  • The most affordable and best treatment plan involves stopping problems before they even start. We believe one of the best ways for us to help our patients have healthy smiles is by offering regular dental checkups and preventive dentistry in Tukwila, WA designed to do exactly this. The American Dental Association recommends that people of all ages see their dentist at least twice each year for checkups and preventive care to avoid cavities and gum disease as the years go by.

    Dental Cleanings

    One of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums free of disease is with routine preventive cleanings. For most patients, these cleanings are every 6 months. Over time, tartar buildup can cause bad breath, gum disease, and bone loss. Cleanings remove this buildup and help patients have a healthy smile that lasts for years. If regular cleanings aren’t a part of your preventive care routine, gum disease and other types of conditions may develop. Unfortunately, these can lead to permanent tooth loss.

    During your cleanings, our hygienists will:

    Fluoride Treatments

    Protecting tooth enamel and preventing cavities is important for both adults and children. Fluoride is useful for battling sensitivity as well as protecting demineralized enamel. We apply fluoride after your cleaning when the tooth is most susceptible to absorbing the mineral. This professional application enhances the strength of your enamel and helps fight off the development of future decay.

    Dental Sealants

    Sealants help fight decay. They are placed in areas where there are deep grooves or pits on the surface of the teeth. These areas are very prone to developing cavities due to how difficult they are to keep clean. Sealants are thin protective coatings that make the grooves shallower and block bacteria out. This makes it easier to brush and keep the teeth free of decay.

    Nightguards for Bruxism

    If you or Dr. Timmerman have noticed that some of your teeth are looking excessively worn down, or if you frequently have headaches or jaw pain in the morning, you could have a condition called bruxism. This occurs when you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep. We can alleviate your symptoms and protect your teeth using a custom mouthguard that you wear at night. This appliance keeps your teeth from touching and relaxes the jaw muscles for long-term relief.

    Oral Cancer Screening

    Did you know that oral cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer? At least 53,000 people are estimated to be newly diagnosed this year, and nearly half of them will likely not survive past 5 years. That’s why oral cancer screenings with Dr. Timmerman are so important. We use Oral ID, a system that utilizes a light to identify potentially cancerous cells. If we find something concerning, we’ll refer you to a physician for additional testing and treatment.

    Preventive Dentistry FAQs

    Discover how you can maintain optimal oral health, prevent dental problems, and ensure a confident smile. Find answers to your questions and gain valuable insights into the importance of preventive dental care in just a few clicks.
    Preventive dentistry refers to the practice of caring for your teeth and gums to maintain oral health and prevent the onset of dental diseases. It involves adopting regular oral hygiene practices, visiting the dentist for check-ups and cleanings, and making lifestyle choices that promote good oral health.
    Common preventive dentistry techniques include regular brushing and flossing, using mouthwash, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco products, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages, and visiting the dentist for professional cleanings and examinations.
    Preventive dentistry is important because it helps in early detection and treatment of oral health issues, preventing them from progressing into more serious and costly conditions. It also helps maintain good oral hygiene, preserves natural teeth, promotes overall health, and saves money by avoiding extensive dental treatments.
    It is generally recommended to visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. However, the frequency may vary based on individual needs and the dentist’s recommendations. Some individuals with specific dental conditions may require more frequent visits.
    During a preventive dental visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, check for signs of dental issues, clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar, perform X-rays if necessary, and provide guidance on oral hygiene practices. They may also offer personalized recommendations based on your dental health.
    Yes, preventive dentistry is highly beneficial for children. It helps establish good oral hygiene habits from an early age, prevents tooth decay, and promotes healthy development of permanent teeth. Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are common preventive measures for children.
    Yes, preventive dentistry can help address bad breath (halitosis). Regular dental cleanings and examinations can detect and treat underlying causes of bad breath, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing the tongue and using mouthwash, also contribute to fresh breath.

    Find Your Perfect Style

    Incredible results and inspiring journeys; see some of our patients’ before and after photos the next time you visit our practice.

    Your new smile is only a few clicks away.

    Meet Tukwila’s Most Trusted Dentist

    Meet Your Dentist

    Get to Know Lance Timmerman, DMD, PS

    Born and raised in Kirkland, Dr. Timmerman believes that a true dentist is also an artist, and he even displays works of art in our dental office (including a sculpture he made with his own hands) to demonstrate his aesthetic-minded eye.

    Seeing people smile brighter after their appointments is always a joy, which is why his dental office is open to new patients and families who are ready to achieve the dental health and happiness they deserve. If you’d like to learn more about him, just keep reading below.

    Read What Our Patients Are Saying

    Our patients enjoy the very best when it comes to speed, convenience, and quality of care, and they just love talking about it online!
    jesse miller
    Rated 5 out of 5
    1 week ago
    This place has changed my life for the better i hope others make the decision to do this. Everyone here has been great to work with and has made somthing that would be a very hard thing to do made it as simple as possible for me and I am very thankfull
    Amy Miller
    Rated 5 out of 5
    1 week ago
    Feeling thankful! After struggling to find someone who could help me with my dental implant, I was finally seen at South Seattle Smiles. The supportive and caring staff made all the difference. Dr. Timmerman’s professionalism and attentiveness made me feel right at home. I recommend South Seattle Smiles for anyone looking for cosmetic dentistry in the Fairwood area. Never thought I’d say this, but I’m actually looking forward to my next appointment!
    lenore bensinger
    Rated 5 out of 5
    5 months ago
    Dr. Shor and his staff, especially Donna at the front desk. made me feel reassured from the get-go. My husband was welcomed as were all my many questions.Dr. Shor is clearly highly skilled, current and can share his treatment goals clearly. He is very meticulous and makes me feel like I’m in excellent hands.I see many grateful patients in his lobby on every visit. _*****
    Brad
    Rated 5 out of 5
    11 months ago
    All on x dental implant procedure… Dr. Timmerman and his staff changed my life. My whole experience was nothing short of amazing. Holly from day one was completely upfront and helpful through the whole 6 month procedure, always friendly , and happy to answer every question I had. And I had a TON of questions !! Their other two staff members, Breonna (I’m sure I spelled that wrong sorry! ) and Dr. Timmerman’s dental assistant Tuba, couldn’t have been more kind. I honestly can’t say enough about how well the process went. Thank you Dr. Timmerman, Holly , Breonna, and Tuba. You really have changed everything for me !
    Taylor Farhoud
    Rated 5 out of 5
    11 months ago
    Amazing team. Appreciate them all so much..
    Vernell Jackson
    Rated 5 out of 5
    1 year ago
    I enjoyed the journey to have the beautiful smile that I have I love it, thank God for this smile that I have now Yesss!!!
    joe Pordon
    Rated 5 out of 5
    2 years ago
    Start to almost finished, the entire staff has been welcoming and courteous. Incredibly refreshing the way the do things. This will be my go to as long as their there
    Larry Feero
    Rated 5 out of 5
    2 years ago
    This was an incredible experience from the moment I walked into the office. The staff was welcoming and detailed in every step of the process. Holly, Dr Timmerman and his dental assistant are amazing. I don’t usually do reviews, but I had to on this one. Thank you so much. Life is good! ????????????????

    Embrace Preventive Dentistry for Lifelong Dental Wellness

    We take the time to make everything right. Just imagine:

  • Preventive Dentistry Saves You Time, Money, and Dental Discomfort
  • Preventive Dentistry Ensures Fresh Breath and a Beautiful, Stain-Free Smile
  • Preventive Dentistry Reduces the Risk of Cavities, Gum Disease, and Tooth Loss
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