|
| |
Description
Preventive Dentistry is designed to maintain the oral structures in a healthy state,
and to enable treatment at an early stage when necessary. Like most health care
issues, dentistry is most effective, less difficult, and less expensive when smaller
procedures are performed. In general, dental disease prevention has been extremely
successful in the past several decades.
Capabilities
- Prophylaxis (Cleaning)
- The term for removal of hard and soft accumulations on the teeth is called a dental
prophylaxis. Most people just call it "getting your teeth cleaned."
This procedure is critical in the long-term health of oral tissues to eliminate the
major source of irritation to the gum tissues and the areas where dental plaque hides
while starting cavities. Schedules from once per year to once every few months are
used, depending on the needs of individual patients. The classic interval is every
six months.
- Radiographs (X-Rays)
- The taking of dental radiographs is the most useful diagnostic tool besides visual exam
we have. Many different types of x-rays may be taken, some inside the mouth and some
outside. Generally, scanning panoramic films are taken at longer intervals (every
few years) to see "the big picture" for the patient. Smaller films, such
as bitewing or individual periapical views, are taken more frequently and show better
detail of teeth and bone. Once again, the interval between x-ray exams variwes
depending on circumstance but once per year is common for adults.
- Oral Examination
- There is still no substitute for looking in a patient's mouth. The visual sense is
far more accurate than current other technology and is the primary diagnostic tool. During
this phase, the teeth are probed for soft spots (cavities) and the bite is evaluated.
In our office, this information is stored in an electronic record using a computer
touch screen in the operatory. We find the thoroughness of the exam is enhanced by
the ability to recall very detailed information quickly
- Periodontal Exam
- When the mouth is checked, the health of the gum tissues and supporting bone should be
evaluated. This is most commonly done using a small blunt probe and measurements are
taken of the attachment level of the gums to the teeth. We perform this check at
every oral exam.
- Oral Cancer Screening
- There are numerous forms of growths which may occur in and around the mouth. Every
exam should include a screening look at the tissues for signs of changes in color,
contour, shape, and consistency. The mouth is a fairly common site for growths and
malignancies, and early detection is critical to outcome of treatment. Persons who
use tobacco and alcohol, especially both, are at much higher risk.
|
