Preventive Dentistry

Hygiene Visits
Establishing regular appointments with your dental hygienist reinforces your home care, helps us detect problems in the early stages and helps you maintain optimum oral health. The dental hygienist works closely with the dentist to manage your care. Your dental hygiene visit includes:

• Oral cancer exam
• Check gums for signs of periodontal (gum) disease
• Check for decay
• X-rays to check for decay between teeth and/or cysts or abscesses
• Check fillings for leaks or cracks
• Check for loose teeth or shifting and drifting of teeth
• Check bite for wear or TMD problems (“TMJ”)
• Evaluate possible cosmetic enhancements of your smile
• Evaluate existing dental restorations for proper fit, function, and aesthetics
• Periodontal charting to measure pocket depths (adults)
• Scaling the tooth surfaces to remove plaque (soft) and calculus (hard) deposits
• Fluoride treatments
• Patient education and use of dental aids

Oral Cancer Screenings
Dental exams play an important role in the early detection of oral cancer. This is important because the success rate for a cure is greater when found in its earliest stages. The exam is quick and painless, and it’s benefits are invaluable.

Signs of Oral Cancer:

• Sores that bleed easily or do not heal
• A color change of the oral tissues
• Bleeding in the mouth
• Loose teeth
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
• A change in the way the teeth fit together
• A lump in the neck
• Small white or red spots or sore anywhere in the mouth

Bruxism (TMD) Relief
The habit of clenching and grinding the teeth is known as bruxism. It most often occurs at night during sleep, but may also occur during the day. It can occur at any age. Most people are not aware of the disorder until their teeth have been damaged.

While bruxism is typically associated with stress, it may also be triggered by occlusion (the way the teeth fit together), or crooked and missing teeth.

Symptoms of bruxism include:

• Sore and tired facial muscles
• Sensitive teeth
• Locking, popping and clicking of the jaw
• Headaches
• Earaches

Left untreated, bruxism may lead to jaw dysfunction and tooth loss.