Prevention
A preventive program is a cooperative effort by the patient, dentist, and dental staff to preserve the natural dentition and supporting structures by preventing the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases and conditions.
Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet. It is continued in the dental office by the efforts of your dentist and dental hygienist to promote, restore, and maintain your oral health.
Dental Exams & Cleanings
Dental Exam
A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will perform the following:
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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.
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Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
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Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
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Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
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Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:
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Removal of calculus
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Removal of plaque
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Teeth polishing:
Dental X- Rays
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Dental radiographs (X-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Without X-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental X-rays may reveal:
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Abscesses or cysts.
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Bone loss.
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Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
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Decay between the teeth.
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Developmental abnormalities.
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Poor tooth and root positions.
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Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
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Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Oral Cancer Exam
According to research conducted by the American Cancer Society, more than 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year. More than 7,000 of these cases result in the death of the patient. The good news is that oral cancer can easily be diagnosed with an annual oral cancer exam, and effectively treated when caught in its earliest stages.
The most common type of oral cancer is the malignant squamous cell carcinoma. This oral cancer type usually originates in lip and mouth tissues.
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There are many different places in the oral cavity and maxillofacial region in which oral cancers commonly occur, including:
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Lips
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Mouth
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Tongue
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Salivary Glands
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Oropharyngeal Region (throat)
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Gums
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Face