Practical guidance on preventative dental care, patient habits, and professional support for long-term oral health.

SACRAMENTO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / January 22, 2026 / Dr. Andrea Joy Smith has shared updated guidance on preventative dental care to help patients reduce the risk of common oral health problems in 2026 in a new blog post.

Nearly half of adults over the age of 30 experience some form of gum disease, and many also develop other preventable oral health issues such as tooth decay, enamel wear, or jaw-related symptoms over time. Preventative dental care focuses on identifying and addressing concerns early, before they become more serious, painful, or costly.

Why Preventative Oral Health Care Matters

Preventative oral health care plays an important role in reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. When dental issues are detected early, treatments are often less invasive and more effective. Preventative care also helps preserve natural teeth, supporting proper chewing, speaking, and overall oral function.

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums may also support broader well-being. Preventative care combines consistent at-home hygiene practices with regular professional dental evaluations to monitor changes and address concerns early.

What Patients Can Do

Patients play a central role in maintaining oral health through daily habits and awareness. Recommended preventative practices include brushing twice daily, flossing at least once a day, scheduling routine dental appointments, and using dentist-recommended products or therapies when appropriate.

Patients are also encouraged to avoid habits that increase the risk of tooth damage, such as frequent sugary snacks before bed or hard candies that may fracture teeth. Paying attention to warning signs-such as jaw soreness, headaches, grinding or clenching, or changes in tooth shape-can help patients seek care before issues progress.

How Dentists Support Preventative Care

Maintaining good oral health is not something patients manage alone. Dental professionals support preventative care through comprehensive oral exams, clinical and radiographic evaluations, dental imaging when appropriate, and routine professional cleanings. Ongoing monitoring allows dentists to recommend early interventions designed to stop dental disease from advancing.

Supporting Long-Term Oral Health

Preventative dental care is an ongoing process that supports oral health throughout life. By combining daily at-home care with regular professional evaluations, patients can take meaningful steps toward reducing preventable dental issues and maintaining long-term oral health.

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About Dr. Andrea Joy Smith

Dr. Andrea Joy Smith has more than 30 years of experience providing dental care to patients in Sacramento, CA. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UCLA and graduated from the UCSF School of Dentistry in 1994. Dr. Smith is a Diplomate of the International Academy of Oral Implantologists and specializes in general dentistry, dental implants, and therapeutic Botox treatments for TMJ and orofacial pain. She also educates and mentors dental professionals through Dental Practice Mastery, where she teaches advanced clinical courses and provides hands-on guidance.

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SOURCE: Dr. Andrea Joy Smith, DDS

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SOURCE: Dr. Andrea Joy Smith, DDS