Dental Exam
A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by our primary dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, its ‘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.
-
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.
-
Examination of existing restorations : Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
-
Examination of Cracks and Wear on teeth : Check any existing tooth for cracks to avoid emergency root canal treatment.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Your cleaning or dental prophylaxis 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!
-
Teeth polishing : Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
Fluoride Treatment
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.
Fluoride works in two ways:
-
Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
-
Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
-
Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
-
Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.
-
Inadequate exposure to fluorides.
-
Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications.
-
Recent history of dental decay.
Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay! It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Sealants
A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface. Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.
Reasons for sealants:
Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16.
Adults – Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves or depressions.
Baby teeth – Occasionally done if teeth have deep grooves or depressions and child is cavity prone.
What do sealants involve?
Sealants are easily applied by your dentist or dental hygienist and the process takes only a couple of minutes per tooth.
The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and then surrounded with cotton to keep the area dry. A special solution is applied to the enamel surface to help the sealant bond to the teeth. The teeth are then rinsed and dried. Sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions. Depending on the type of sealant used, the material will either harden automatically or with a special curing light.
Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new sealants.
Sports guard or Mouth guards
Protect Your Teeth during Sports Activities with a Mouth guard.
Custom designed mouth guards are made of flexible plastic and molded to fit the shape of your teeth and therefore more comfortable than the readymade ones.
Mouth guards are recommended to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw during sports activities, such as hockey, rugby, baseball and basketball, football, soccer or any other activity where your mouth may get hit.
Protect your smile. Ask us about creating a mouth guard for you and your child.
Night Guards
If you're experiencing chronic headaches and migraines by involuntary night-time teeth clenching, you need a night guard. A night guard is a thin transparent device that is worn over the biting surface of your teeth while you sleep to prevent contact between the upper and lower teeth.
The Night Guard Fitting Process
-
Impressions are taken of your upper and lower teeth to confirm an accurate fit
-
Using your impressions as a mold, the night guard is crafted out of strong, durable plastic
-
When the guard is finished, it is properly fitted to your mouth
-
Simply wear the guard while you sleep every night
Benefits of a Night Guard
-
Prevents migraine pain
-
Prevents tension-type headache pain
-
Can help prevent jaw disorders by relieving pressure
-
Prevents teeth grinding and the development of TMD (temporomandibular disorder)
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A CONSULTATION.
