Comprehensive Exam

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your consultation:

• Any x-rays taken by a previous dentist, if applicable.
• A list of medications you are presently taking.
• If you have dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.

IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to treatment (i.e., diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are currently taking any medication (i.e., heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.).

If your dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they forward them to our office. If additional x-rays are necessary, they can be taken at our office.

The secret to a bright, healthy smile is actually no secret at all: brush, floss and get a professional dental exam at least once every six months. Professional dental exams are all about prevention – preventing existing problems from getting worse and preventing dental problems from developing in the future. Regular dental exams make it possible to identify and treat a problem in its earliest stage – which is not only good for your oral health but also good for your budget!

There's nothing to fear with a dental exam. Your teeth will be visually examined for signs of plaque, tartar and tooth decay. Your gums will also be examined for puffiness or discoloration, which are signs of gum disease. A thorough head , neck and oral cancer screening is also done to properly diagnose and prevent any future problems. A full set of dental X-rays will enable your dentist to see below the surfaces of your teeth. Dental exams typically end with a dental prophylaxis or cleaning.

An ultrasonic cleaning is a popular alternative to traditional teeth cleanings. With an ultrasonic teeth cleaning, an ultrasonic scaler is used to remove deposits, kill harmful microbes and eliminate bacteria around the teeth and gums through high-frequency sound waves. Many patients find an ultrasonic teeth cleanings more comfortable than traditional teeth cleanings because they are more thorough, quicker, quieter and in most cases, pain-free.

A deep cleaning may be recommended if excessive plaque and tartar deposits have developed below the gum line. Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, involve a two-part process: first, the stubborn deposits are removed, and then the root surfaces are smoothened. A deep cleaning helps prevent periodontal disease and restores gum tissues to a healthy state.

Prophylaxis can be performed at our office. We recommend that prophylaxis be performed twice annually as a preventative measure, but should be completed every 3-4 months for periodontitis sufferers.