A hygiene visit begins with professional cleaning, called dental prophylaxis. Hygienists are experienced clinicians who use special instruments to gently scale away plaque and calculus (plaque that hardens into tartar above and below the gum line). Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats teeth at the gum line and produces toxins that irritate gum tissue and initiate periodontal disease. Then remaining traces of plaque and surface stains are removed with a final polish. Our hygiene team provides instruction and hands-on demonstration to help you keep your mouth healthy between visits.
The dentist performs a comprehensive examination, including:
- Analysis of gum health and bone around teeth.
- Checking each tooth for decay, fractures, chips, and wear.
- Inspection of fillings, crowns, bridges, and other dental restorations.
- Evaluation of fit and wear of dentures or other dental appliances.
- Oral cancer screening. This painless check of soft tissues in the mouth, throat, lips, neck, and face takes only a few minutes, and it could ultimately save your life.
- Periodic x-rays, with the frequency depending on your age, oral condition, and risk factors.
IMPORTANCE OF X-RAYS
Our practice utilizes digital radiography which creates high-resolution images with minimal radiation exposure. X-rays give the dentist visibility to dental caries, bone loss and periodontal disease, infections, cysts, and tumors. Early detection allows the most efficient and economical treatment, with the least discomfort.