Your dental health impacts your overall health. Part of our commitment to our patients includes providing information that helps them make more informed decisions about their oral health needs. As a practice, we believe preventive care and education are the keys to optimal dental care. Not only are we focused on the beauty of your smile; we’re also concerned about your health. We are focused on dental health care. Therefore, we focus on thorough exams – checking the overall health of your teeth and gums, performing oral cancer exams, and taking x-rays when necessary.
What is included in a dental exam?
Typically, a comprehensive dental exam is performed at your initial visit to the dentist. After your initial exam, regular check-up exams are performed. Exams usually include the following:
- Diagnostic x-rays, which are essential in detecting decay, cysts, tumors, and bone loss. X-rays are also vital in determining root and tooth positions.
- Gum disease evaluation
- Examination for tooth decay
- Oral cancer screening
- Examination of existing restorations; crowns, fillings, etc.
What is involved in a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning appointment involves the removal of calculus (tartar), plaque, and teeth polishing. A check-up exam is also performed at most cleaning appointments.
What type of toothbrush should I use to brush my teeth?
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and directly before bed at night. The best toothbrush is small with soft rounded-end bristles. The toothbrush should not be more than three months old. The bristles should be soft enough not to cause irritation and damage to gum tissue. The head of the brush should be small enough for access to all areas of the mouth. The American Dental Association (ADA) has given its stamp of approval for the use of electronic toothbrushes. The ADA notes brushes with oscillating or rotating heads are more effective than others.
What is the correct way to brush my teeth?
- The toothbrush should be placed at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
- Small, circular motions should be used to gently brush your teeth and your gum line.
- Be careful not to apply too much pressure to your teeth as this can damage your gums and tooth enamel.
- Be sure to brush every surface of each tooth. Pay special attention to the surfaces of the back teeth.
- Use back and forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Also, be mindful to brush your tongue to remove food and debris.
Is fluoride treatment necessary?
Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.
Although most of us receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. We may sometimes recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:
- You have deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
- You have exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
- You have fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
- You frequently intake sugar and carbohydrates.
- You do not have adequate exposure to fluoride.
- You have inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments, or medications.
- You have a recent history of tooth/dental decay.
