Proactive dental care · Union, NJ
General and Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry at Union Family Dental focuses on stopping dental problems before they start through routine cleanings, exams, fluoride, sealants, and oral cancer screenings. Consistent preventive care is the most affordable way to protect long-term oral health.
The essentials
What is general and preventive dentistry?
General and preventive dentistry combines routine professional care with early diagnosis and practical guidance to keep teeth and gums healthy. Its purpose is to prevent decay, gum disease, dental emergencies, and avoidable tooth loss.
At Union Family Dental in Union, NJ, preventive visits may include a dental cleaning, a comprehensive or periodic exam, appropriate digital X-rays, fluoride treatment, dental sealants, and an oral cancer screening. The services recommended depend on age, oral health, medical history, and individual risk factors.
Michael Hogan, DDS, and the Union Family Dental team use these visits to identify small changes early, explain their findings clearly, and create a practical plan for maintaining long-term oral health.
Cleanings & exams
Remove plaque and tartar while checking the teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work.
Fluoride treatments
Strengthen enamel and support cavity prevention for children and adults with increased decay risk.
Dental sealants
Protect the deep grooves of back teeth with a thin coating that makes them easier to keep clean.
Oral cancer screenings
Check the lips, cheeks, tongue, throat, and other oral tissues for changes that may need attention.
Your preventive visit
What does treatment involve?
A routine preventive appointment is tailored to your current health and usually combines an assessment, professional cleaning, and a clear plan for the months ahead.
Health review
Tell the team about changes to your dental health, medical history, medications, or areas of concern.
At the start of your visitExam & screening
Dr. Hogan or another Union Family Dental provider checks your teeth, gums, bite, restorations, and oral tissues. X-rays are taken when clinically appropriate.
Usually 10 to 20 minutesProfessional cleaning
A hygienist removes plaque and hardened tartar, polishes the teeth, and reviews areas that need more attention at home.
Usually 30 to 60 minutesPrevention plan
Review findings, recommended fluoride or sealants, home-care guidance, and the timing of your next visit.
Before you leave
Is it right for you?
Am I a good candidate?
Preventive care is appropriate for patients of every age, including people who currently have no pain or obvious dental concerns.
- You want to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease
- It has been about six months or longer since your last exam
- You have sensitivity, bleeding gums, dry mouth, or a history of dental problems
- Your child’s permanent teeth may benefit from fluoride or sealants
A consultation at Union Family Dental can determine the preventive schedule and services that fit your individual needs.
Planning your care
What does preventive dentistry cost?
The cost of preventive care depends on the type of exam, whether X-rays are needed, the cleaning required, and whether fluoride or sealants are recommended. We provide an estimate based on your individual visit before additional care is completed.
Many dental insurance plans include routine exams, cleanings, and certain diagnostic services as preventive benefits, although frequency limits and patient costs vary. Union Family Dental can review your benefits, discuss available payment options, and explain any expected cost before treatment.
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Helpful answers
Frequently asked questions
Regular preventive visits make it easier to identify changes early and maintain a healthy smile.
Many patients benefit from an exam and cleaning every six months. Dr. Hogan may recommend a different schedule based on your gum health, cavity risk, medical history, and previous treatment.
Dental X-rays use a low level of radiation and are taken only when clinically appropriate. Digital imaging and protective measures help keep exposure as low as reasonably achievable.
Sealants are thin protective coatings placed over the chewing grooves of back teeth. They are commonly recommended for children as permanent molars erupt and may also help cavity-prone adults.
Many plans cover routine exams and cleanings, but coverage, frequency limits, deductibles, and copays vary. Our team can check your specific benefits before your appointment.
Ready to get started?
Protect your smile with preventive care
Book with Dr. Hogan or a member of the Union Family Dental team.