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Dental Exams & Cleanings

Dental Exam

A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit.  At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:

  • Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions. Only minimal, necessary x-rays are recommended.
  • Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
  • Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments. The non-invasive painless laser cavity check will often be used to discover new decay.
  • Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, veneers and any other questionable areas.
  • Digital oral photographs: These photos document current health and enable better views of changes in the mouth.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are performed by Registered Dental Hygienists.  Your cleaning  interval will often vary from 3 to 4 to 6 months depending on your individual  health since plaque has become such a whole body health issue.  Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:

  • Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!This plaque is also responsible for decreasing the body's immune system since it is carried into the bloodstream during chewing. This plaque can cause Cardiovascular Disease, Stroke, Dementia, Alzeihmers, Pancreatic Cancer, premature birth and low birth weight in infants.
  • Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
  • Laser Bacterial Removal (LBR): A painless soft tissue laser is used to vaporize bacterial, not just relocate them. This is an optional procedure but has proven to be very effective in healthy gums.