Preventive Dentistry on the Upper East Side, Manhattan

Why Choose Dr. Min for Preventive Care

  • Columbia-trained prosthodontist focused on prevention-first, minimally invasive dentistry.
  • Award-winning precision and military-honed discipline—expect meticulous exams, clear explanations, and calm communication.
  • Risk-based protocols (CAMBRA) to lower future cavity and gum-disease risk—not just “clean and polish.”
  • Digital diagnostics: high-resolution photos and low-dose X-rays/CBCT (when indicated) to catch small issues early.

What Preventive Dentistry Includes

  • Comprehensive exams: teeth, gums, bite/TMJ, restorations, and oral-cancer screening.
  • Professional cleanings: prophylaxis for healthy gums; periodontal maintenance for a history of gum disease.
  • Fluoride varnish & prescription fluoride for high-risk or sensitive teeth.
  • Sealants for cavity-prone grooves (kids, teens, and select adults).
  • Risk assessment (CAMBRA): diet, saliva/dry mouth, medications, reflux, hygiene habits.
  • Bite & wear check: bruxism screening to prevent cracks and costly redo work.
  • Home-care coaching tailored to your risk and lifestyle.

Who Benefits Most

  • Children & teens with new molars or braces (higher plaque retention).
  • Adults with busy schedules, frequent snacking/sipping, or dry mouth from medications.
  • Patients with crowns/implants/veneers who want to protect their investment.
  • Anyone with a history of cavities, gum disease, or sensitive/enamel-thin teeth.

Age-Specific Preventive Care

  • Kids/Teens: sealants, fluoride, eruption guidance, sports mouthguards.
  • Adults: risk-based cleanings, desensitizers, bruxism guards, pregnancy-safe care.
  • Seniors: dry-mouth management, root-surface protection, medication review, implant maintenance.

The Process at a Glance

1) Exam & Risk Profile

Photos, X-rays (as needed), gum charting, bite/wear analysis, and oral-cancer screening.

2) Professional Cleaning

Prophylaxis or periodontal maintenance; stain removal and polish.

3) Strengthen & Protect

Fluoride varnish, sealants, desensitizers; night-guard discussion if grinding.

4) Personal Home Plan

Toothpaste/rinse selection, floss/interdental tools, diet timing, and follow-up interval (3–6 months).

5) Review & Adjust

Track changes over time and refine your plan as life or health factors shift.

At-Home Care Essentials

  • Brush 2x/day with fluoride toothpaste; floss daily (or interdental brushes/water flosser).
  • Time acidic/sugary drinks with meals; avoid all-day sipping.
  • Rinse with water after coffee/soda; consider sugar-free gum for saliva flow.
  • Use a night guard if you clench/grind.
  • Replace your brush head every 3 months (or sooner if bristles splay).

Comfort, Safety & Materials

  • Gentle technique; most preventive visits are no-shot.
  • Rubber-dam/isolation when placing sealants for clean, durable bonds.
  • BPA-free composites and varnishes; single-use sterile supplies.

Insurance, Membership & Cost

  • Transparent, itemized estimates before care.
  • Most PPO plans cover exams, X-rays, cleanings, fluoride, and sealants; periodontal maintenance and guards vary—our team verifies and files claims.
  • Phased recommendations to fit your timeline and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a cleaning?
Every 3–6 months depending on your gum health and risk profile. We’ll personalize the interval.

Do adults really need sealants?
Yes—deep grooves don’t disappear. For high-risk adults or hard-to-keep-dry areas, sealants plus fluoride can meaningfully reduce decay.

Why do I still get cavities if I brush?
Frequency of sugars, dry mouth, crowding, or reflux can override good brushing. A risk-based plan addresses the cause.

Is whitening part of prevention?
Whitening is elective, but a healthy, plaque-free foundation improves both results and longevity.

About Dr. Daniel Min

BA, University of Texas at Austin
DDS, University of Texas (American Esthetic Dental Association award; “Student of the Year” in clinical performance)
MS in Prosthodontics, Columbia University; former part-time clinical professor
U.S. Army veteran; current Army Reserve officer
Member: Academy of Prosthodontics; International Congress of Oral Implantologists

Service Area

Conveniently located on the Upper East Side and serving patients throughout Manhattan and the greater New York City area.

Call to Action

Want fewer surprises at the dentist and a plan that actually lowers risk? Book a preventive visit with Dr. Daniel Min for a thorough exam, pro cleaning, and a personalized home-care strategy.