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!
    Janet Powell
    5/5
    3 months ago
    I had to have a full mouth dental implant top and bottom plates. And Dr timmerman took very good care of me and checked with me even after I got home. Was having trouble getting my pain under control. And he went out of his way and drove to his office and picked up a prescription and drove it to my pharmacy and personally dropped it off for me I have never heard of anyone ever doing that for a patient. But that’s the kind of doctor he is. I would recommend Dr timberman two anyone that had to have dental work done they make sure you know and understand everything, there are no hidden fees. And they really do take good care of you they make you feel like you’re part of their family. And I will make sure all my dental work is done to his office. And they made me so comfortable and unafraid, when I have been terrified of dentist my whole life since I was 8 years old had a bad experience with the dentist I am 60 now and he made me feel like I was going into get a professional makeup job done he did such a good job at restoring my smile I had missing teeth I even had bone loss but he made me look so good and feel so good about myself I am on cloud nine right now and my kids keep saying mama you have such a beautiful smile again
    Tim Ricks
    5/5
    5 months ago
    Dr Timmerman is a real pro. He is a gifted crafter of smiles . All on 6 in my case. For years i havent publicly smiled at anyone. My natural teeth had reached the end. Enter Seattle Smiles to give me a solution that restored confidence in myself to present my true self to the world again. The consultation was thorough and very educational to me. Its tough to hear you cant keep your natural teeth anymore but Dr Timmerman did great explaining my options and being honest about the consequences for my oral and general health. I trusted the Dr completely and he did a terrific job on my all on 6 (upper and lower) restoration. Prep and Surgery was well prepared and almost completely painless . Its amazing from the quality of the work performed to the underlying advanced tech to the craftsmenship of my new smile and the great support of Holly to help me explore potential coverage under my health insurance. 1st class staff, top notch Dentist and full support of this journey. On to healing and getting final set late this summer. Very pleased with the results. My wife says she doesnt want me to go out in public because “I look too good”. Thanks Dr Timmerman and staff, you changed my life .
    Kalena Mina
    5/5
    6 months ago
    Dr. Timmerman is exceptionally skilled and friendly. He exhibits a gentle touch when working on your teeth. His staff is also very welcoming. I once witnessed Dr. Timmerman performing an emergency tooth repair for someone I knew, and he did an excellent job. I wouldn’t consider going to anyone else. My trust in Dr. Timmerman is unwavering at 100%. When it comes to cosmetic dental work, Dr. Timmerman is, without a doubt, the best!
    Lorri Kurth
    5/5
    1 year ago
    I use Dr.Timmerman for Botox and I’m happy with my results. They were able to get me in the same day. Thank you!!
    Mai Trinh
    5/5
    1 year ago
    Dr. Timmerman took good care of his clients,he’s professional ,friendly,he’s always use the new technology …Thank you very much Dr.Timmerman and all staffs what you have done for me.
    Cherie Lang
    5/5
    1 year ago
    Lance and staff do great work. Lance is a very talented dentist. Gail cleaned my teeth today and she’s a soothing soul. Nice to have someone like that in a dental office😉
    Andrew Waters
    5/5
    2 years ago
    I have lived in the south Seattle area for 10 years and this is by far the best Dental office I have found in the area. Fast, efficient, and pleasant service. Exceptionally skilled and experienced staff. The dental work I have had done at this office is, hands down, the best quality I have ever had done (and I have had a lot done) Exceptional. Highly recommended.
    margaret english
    5/5
    2 years ago
    If you have embarrassment or fears concerning your teeth /mouth condition this is the place to come. Very professional! They put you immediately at ease. My teeth are in horrible condition. It was difficult for me to even make the apt as I’m so embarrassed to even open my mouth. From the receptionist to the doctor I was treated as if I was the only patient they had that day. They even helped me get financing! Make the call today you won’t be sorry.

    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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