Hygiene

Oral health counseling and instructions

Oral examinations

At your first visit with us, the dentist will perform a thorough, comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and soft tissue. Then at least once per year, we will continue to monitor your oral health by examining the following things:

Oral Cancer Screening

Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer

Examination of Tooth Decay

All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments

Examination of Dental X-Rays

We take appropriate x-rays to determine if there is any decay/cavities that we cannot observe visually. These tools are also critical in the detection of cysts, tumors, tooth infections, bone loss, and other problems with the teeth and bone.

Periodontal Evaluation

The doctor will check the health of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. If any disease is present, he will recommend appropriate treatments to eliminate it or stop its progress.

Examination of existing restorations

We will check any and all fillings, crowns, dentures, or other restorations that are already in your mouth. This allows us to catch and fix any problems while they are small and before more involved and expensive treatment becomes necessary.

Dental cleanings (prophylaxis)

Dental cleanings are the most commonly performed procedures in a general dental office. The procedure consists of the removal of soft plaque and hard, calcified deposits (tartar/calculus) from the visible part of the teeth. The procedure is normally quick and causes minimal discomfort. Dental cleanings are usually performed by the dental hygienist. At this time, we will discuss the status of your oral health and recommend ways to improve it, including improvement of your at-home cleaning techniques and the use of your toothbrush, floss, and other tools.