Maintain a healthy smile (and much more) with quality, preventative dentistry in Greensboro, NC

At Triad Dentistry, we appreciate that the best dental problem is the one that never happens in the first place! This approach is focused on prevention. And effective preventative dentistry in Greensboro, NC at the Triad Dentistry office combines consistent and thorough home care with professional examinations and cleanings. So, when patients brush, floss, and care for their teeth and gums effectively, every day, and maintain check-ups with Drs. Hatcher, Merrell, and Isharani, they are taking part in the preventative dentistry that maintains a healthy and stunning smile.

A proactive approach

Too many times, patients only visit their dentist when symptoms like toothaches arise. This is reactive dentistry. Reactive dentistry identifies existing problems and restores oral health with time-consuming, costly, and extensive treatments. Restorative procedures include extractions followed by bridges or dental implant-retained crowns and dentures to replace teeth that can’t be “saved” with root canal therapy. Why go through all of the trauma, hassle, and expense associated with restorative treatment when you don’t have to?

Preventive dentistry represents an affordable (often, 100% covered by dental insurance), comfortable, and efficient way to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Triad Dentistry’s services focus on preventing or quickly resolving the two leading causes of tooth loss:

  • Decay
  • Gum disease

As progressive conditions, there are many opportunities for Triad Dentistry, in partnership with you, to stop dental decay and disease before they cause irreversible damage.

Tooth decay

Your mouth contains “good” and “bad” bacteria. Researchers estimate 20 billion microbes live in the oral cavity. Since they reproduce every five hours, it’s important to remove bacteria with diligent, routine oral hygiene. If certain strains of bacteria build-up, sticky plaque forms. Harmful bacteria in plaque thrive off of starches and sugars in the foods and drinks. When they “mingle,” acids are produced that bathe your teeth and eat their way through tooth structure.

Decay may present as the erosion of the tooth’s protective enamel covering, which can produce sensitivity. Without treatment, cavities or holes develop on teeth surfaces, get bigger, and penetrate the deeper layers of the tooth. When decay reaches the innermost part of the tooth (or pulp) that contains nerves and blood vessels, significant pain and bacterial infections (abscesses) can arise, and root canal therapy can’t always “save” badly decayed teeth.

Gum disease

When plaque is not brushed or flossed away, it will eventually turn into a hard substance called tartar. This abrasive and porous substance collects above and below the gum line and irritates tooth-supporting tissues. You cannot remove tartar with simple brushing and flossing. Instead, you will need specialized treatment and the use of professional dental instruments. Patients who visit Triad Dentistry love how minty-fresh and clean their mouths feel once our dental hygienists remove this plaque buildup!

Tartar is a leading cause of gum disease. The earliest stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, can be prevented by a combination of both good at-home oral hygiene and professional cleanings performed by our team. Gum disease, much like tooth decay, is a progressive disease that, when addressed quickly, can be reversed so that it does not progress and cause major dental health problems. Untreated gum disease will inevitably advance and lead to the destruction of soft tissue and bone. Pockets between the teeth and gums can develop, allowing additional space for harmful bacteria to gather and exacerbate the problem. Once the gum disease is allowed to progress, it can cause irreversible damage requiring rebuilding teeth and gums through grafting and other restorative procedures.


Gum Disease

Gum Disease - Triad Dentistry, Greensboro, NC

The 3 stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by toxins irritating the gum line as a result of plaque buildup. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis includes swelling, sensitivity, and bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can be easily reversed through professional care and good home oral hygiene. Periodontitis is categorized by irreversible bone loss that results from untreated gingivitis. The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line which traps food and plaque. Dental treatment and home care can help prevent from further damage, but at this stage, the results are not reversible. Advanced periodontitis is when the fibers and bones supporting the teeth destroyed. This may cause teeth to shift or loosen. Teeth may have to be removed depending on how advanced the disease has become and if treatments are not effective. You can begin by preventing gum disease with good oral health. Pick up a brochure or ask your dentist today.


Preventative dentistry at Triad Dentistry

Preventative dentistry at Triad Dentistry in, Greensboro, NC
What is preventative dentistry, and why is it important in managing good oral health? Watch this video as Dr. Steven Hatcher explains all you need to know about preventative dentistry at Triad Dentistry.

Why is preventative dentistry important?

Hi, I am Dr. Stephen Hatcher here at Triad Dentistry. A lot of people ask why prevention is so important? The biggest reason is that it’s a lot better to prevent a problem than to treat a problem.

If there are problems, then we can catch them in the early stages. It’s a lot less expensive than invasive to tackle those things when they’re minor problems.

Prevention is important to help you keep your teeth and maintain your dentition for a lifetime. A lot of people think that they will start losing teeth because they are in their 50s/60s.

With regular dental care and a correct preventative approach that’s custom-tailored for you, there’s no reason why you can’t keep your teeth for a lifetime.

How does Triad Dentistry provide preventative care?

Sometimes as we get older, people start to get on medication, their mouth gets dryer, making them more susceptible to tooth decay.

So it’s really important to have a customized solution tailored to your specific risk level in terms of how often you should come in.

Prevention is also important with oral cancer screenings. In our office, we screen for that every single time you come in.

Please feel free to contact us if you need further information.



Your oral exam

Routine visits are the backbone of preventive dentistry. In addition to professional cleaning, during your appointment, our staff discusses medical changes that can impact oral health; for instance, hundreds of chronic diseases and medications cause dry mouth, a risk factor for tooth decay. Also, x-rays identify oral problems that can’t be detected with the naked eye. At Triad Dentistry, we use digital radiographs that emit less radiation than conventional x-rays and are more comfortable for patients with a bad gag reflex and jaw pain.

Recall appointments are not complete without oral cancer screenings. Triad Dentistry has invested in VELscope technology, which allows us to detect abnormalities early and non-invasively. When detected and treated early, oral cancers have high “cure” rates.

During regular check-ups, our dentists and hygienists discuss other factors that play an important role in preventative dentistry, including:

  • Diet – Foods rich in calcium, Omega-3, and Vitamin D promote healthy teeth and gums and are linked to lower rates of severe gum disease. Add sources such as leafy greens, nuts, and yogurt to your shopping cart.
  • Habits and behaviors – All nicotine-containing products impair your body’s natural defenses, and ability to fight off oral infections. Additionally, patients who grind and clench their teeth are at increased risk of dental disease and damage. Triad Dentistry may recommend customized dental appliances or night guards to protect your teeth and to support better jaw posture.
  • Cleaning techniques – Your teeth are only as clean as to how well they are brushed and flossed. Our team demonstrates ways to improve the effectiveness of your oral hygiene routine. We may recommend dental sealants, which are coatings that protect hard-to-clean molars from decay. Our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Sona Isharani, encourages healthy habits among young patients during their critical developmental years.

Why react to problems when you can prevent them? Along with the team at Triad Dentistry, Drs. Steven L. Hatcher, Chad T. Merrell, and Sona J. Isharani, keep your mouth its healthy best and your smile stunning with quality preventative dentistry services and products. Schedule your preventative appointment at the Greensboro, NC office. Call (336) 383-1482.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: PREVENTATIVE DENTISTRY

Visits at 6-month intervals are generally considered to be “standard.” It’s an opportunity for us to keep your mouth healthy, and to detect problems early when they’re easiest to treat.
If you smoke or use e-cigarettes and other products that contain nicotine, you are at increased risk of conditions such as oral cancer and gum disease. We may recommend more frequent appointments to keep your mouth healthy.
The most common causes of tooth loss include decay and gum disease. You are at increased risk of developing these conditions if you use tobacco products, have comorbidities such as diabetes, and clench or grind your teeth. Your genes, diet, stress, and medications also play a role.
Proper technique often reveals itself during your exam! To keep gum disease and decay away, be sure to brush for at least two minutes, twice each day. Also, brush your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and other areas that harbor harmful bacteria.
It’s important to floss on at least a daily basis. Floss reaches areas your toothbrush can’t, such as the spaces between your teeth.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit the dentist for the first time by no later than their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Your child is in good hands with our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Sona Isharani.
Think of sealants as a “raincoat” for your back teeth. They are easy to apply, non-invasive, and keep food and bacteria out of the grooved surfaces of hard-to-reach molars.
Dental fear and anxiety are quite common. We appreciate that many patients may be nervous, and have numerous gentle approaches and techniques to keep you at ease. We can even discuss safe sedative options to help you relax.
Yes! The best time to visit your friendly dentist at Triad Dentistry is before you have any signs of a problem. Conditions such as gum disease often don’t present themselves as pain or bleeding until they have progressed to the point where restorative care may be needed.
We are committed to doing no harm. Even traditional x-rays emit very low levels of radiation; however, for our patients’ peace of mind, we have invested in digital x-rays. These imaging systems not only emit less radiation than conventional x-rays, but they also produce detailed images for accurate diagnostics.
Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr. Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.

Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.

Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.

Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Why react to problems when you can prevent them? Along with his team at Triad Dentistry, Dr. Steven L. Hatcher keeps your mouth it’s healthy best and your smile stunning with quality preventative dentistry services and products. Schedule your preventative appointment at the Greensboro, NC office. Call (336) 383-1482.