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 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.
- Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- 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.
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:
- 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
- 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.
Microbial Testing: Measure, Treat, Monitor
OralDNA® Labs help dental professionals and their patients use salivary diagnostics to obtain precise evidence about periodontal disease and oral HPV, allowing more accurate diagnosis and, in the case of periodontal disease, more effective treatment.
As you may be aware, the past 10 years have provided much insight into what has come to be called... "The Oral / Systemic Connection". There does appear to be a link to chronic inflammatory periodontal infections and systemic diseases such as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Some forms of cancer and other diseases
As we continue to learn more about the severity of periodontal infections and how closely linked they are to your overall health, having detailed information about your genetic susceptibility (MyPerioID® PST®) and the bacteria that are present in our mouth (MyPerioPath®) will be critical in determining your oral and overall general health.
Introducing MyPerioPath®:
This test indentifies and measures certain bacteria in your mouth that cause gingivitis (early stage gum disease) and periodontal disease (mature gum disease).
Introducing MyPerioID® PST®:
This test determines if you are more likely to develop more serious gum tissue infections, such as inflammatory periodontal disease.
Introducing OraRisk® HPV:
This test determines if you are at increased risk for HPV-related oral and throat cancers.
These new, quick and non-invasive tests deliver information that will enable us to better determine the appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
