Our many years of experience will get you started on the right track to a healthy and beautiful smile. It is important for the long-term health and well-being of our patients to provide an accurate diagnosis of each particular situation using dental x-rays and examinations by our trained professionals. For continued health of your teeth and gums, we recommend periodic dental cleaning by one of our skilled Dental Hygienists.
X-Rays
Dental X-Rays provide an essential role as a diagnostic tool for our dentists. X-Rays provide valuable information of the teeth, bones, and surrounding soft tissues to help identify potential problems with the teeth, mouth, and jaw.
X-Rays can show tooth cavities, wisdom teeth, and bone loss that is not visible during a visual dental examination. Dental X-Rays may reveal:
- Bone Loss
- Decay between the teeth
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Abscesses or cysts
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
Dental Examinations
On your first visit to our office, a comprehensive dental examination will be performed by one of our skilled dentists and/or hygienists. The dental examination will include:
- Examination of diagnostic X-Rays: This is essential for the detection of many tooth and bone abnormalities. X-Rays also help to determine the proper position of the teeth and roots
- Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for signs of decay
- Gum disease evaluation: This will help to detect any signs of periodontal disease by examining the gums and bone around the teeth
- Examination of current restorations you may have: We will examine all current fillings, crowns, bridges, etc.
Hygiene / Cleanings
We provide professional dental cleanings, which are performed by one of our Registered Dental Hygienists. Our skilled staff is gentle and will provide a thorough and professional dental cleaning.
Your teeth cleaning will include the following:
- Removal of plaque: Plaque is a clear, sticky film that is produced by the mouth and forms on teeth. It contains bacteria that produce acids and other toxins that can damage the teeth, gums, and surrounding bone if the plaque is not removed. Sometimes the damage of the gums leads to inflammation and this inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
- Removal of tartar: Tartar is hardened plaque that has been neglected and allowed to firmly attached to the tooth surface. Tartar can form underneath the gumline and can irritate gum tissues. Tartar gives plaque more surface area on which to grow and a much stickier surface to adhere, which can lead to more serious conditions, such as cavities and gum disease. Once tartar has formed, it must be removed with special dental instruments in a process called scaling.
- Teeth polishing: Our Hygienists are trained to remove stubborn stains and plaque that is difficult to remove during normal tooth brushing.