|
 |
 |
The main cause of tooth loss,
decay and gum disease, is bacteria in the mouth. These problems can be dramatically minimized, if not prevented, through proper dental hygiene. Some components of proper dental hygiene include brushing twice a day, flossing, eating a balanced diet, limiting between-meal snacks, and seeing your dentist twice a year for cleaning and exam. Additional preventive measures include the application of dental sealants and exposure to fluoride in the form of fluoridated drinking water, toothpaste, mouthwash, or fluoride treatments directly applied by your dentist.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
 |
 |
A comprehensive dental examination will be
performed at your initial visit.
Below is a list of the procedures you can expect will be performed during your examination.
|
 |
|
|
Diagnostic Dental X-rays
Dental x-rays are essential for the detection of decay, particularly in between teeth
where it is difficult to examine visually. Additional pathology such as abscesses, bone loss,
Developmental anomalies, impactions and tumors may also be seen on a dental x-ray. It
is vital to your dental health to discover any pathology at an early stage. Most conditions are more easily treated if found early. Dental x-rays produce a very small level of radiation
and are considered safe. We take all precautions possible while taking dental x-rays to
minimize your exposure to radiation. These precautions use up to the minute equipment
that is precisely calibrated for the lowest exposure necessary to produce an x-ray
image. Additional precautions include the use of a protective lead apron over the patients
body and the use of high speed film for image exposure time. Dental x-rays are only
prescribed as needed; based on your dental and medical histories, symptoms and current
professional recommendations.
|
Gums and Periodontal Evaluation
Thorough measurements will be taken to assess any periodontal problems that may exist. Gum thickness and mobility, the condition of mucous membrane, signs of bleeding as well as plaque and tartar location are examined. In addition, a small instrument called a periodontal probe will be used to gently measure the space between your tooth and gums. Each tooth has 6 locations where this will be measured. The measurement taken relates to how much, if any, bone loss has occurred at each site.
You can learn more about Periodontal Disease in our Dental Education section.
|
Visual Tooth Inspection
Evaluation of all tooth surfaces for signs of decay, fracture, loose or worn fillings or crowns.
|
Oral Cancer Screening
Examination of lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of mouth , gums, face, neck and local lymph nodes for any signs of abnormalities.
|
Dental Cleaning
Your dental cleaning will be performed by one of our Registered Dental Hygienists. They will scale and polish your teeth for complete removal of tartar and plaque. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that adheres to the tooth surface both above and below the gums. Plaque is a sticky film that also contains bacteria. The bacteria that reside in the plaque can cause gum inflammation. This is the start of gum disease. This is why it is important to see the dentist every 6 months for proper cleaning.
|
Oral Hygiene Instructions
Proper brushing and flossing techniques will be reviewed based on your personal needs.
back to top
|
|
|
|
|
|
