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Dental Exam
Dental examinations are an
important part of every person's overall health care. Regular dental
examinations are important even for patients with good at-home dental
hygiene practices. A dentist may be able to identify tooth or gum problems
at an early stage, when they are easier to treat. Problems such as tooth
decay may not become apparent to the patient until they are significant
and actually cause pain.
Prior to a dental examination,
Dr. Meyer will review your medical and dental history. This can
identify certain medical conditions or lifestyle choices that may affect
a person's oral health. You may also want to speak to Dr. Meyer
about any fear, anxiety or special concerns you have.
Dental examinations involve
a number of components. These may include:
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Dental x-rays,
to identify any hidden signs of decay or disease. The frequency of x-rays
depends on a patient's dental history and risk of tooth decay.
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Examination of the
head and neck area, including the temporomandibular joints (TMJ),
for signs of infection, disease or other problems.
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Visual inspection
of the soft tissue inside the mouth, including a check for lesions and
signs of oral cancer.
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Periodontal screening,
which may include a measurement of the space between the teeth and gums
for signs of gum disease.
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Examination of a
patient's bite, which may indicate a need for braces or Invisalign
®.
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Visual inspection
for signs of tooth decay. This may include the use of specialized tools
(DIAGNOdent®) that can help Dr. Meyer identify
the presence of cavities.
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For children, dental
cleanings are performed by our dental hygienist who cleans and polishes
the teeth, and may apply a fluoride treatment. She may also give
you proper brushing and flossing instructions to help
you in areas that you may be having difficulty with.
After your examination, we
will go over your treatment plan with you. Certain treatments
may be recommended, depending on the findings of the examination. Some
treatments may be performed by Dr. Meyer, while others may require a
visit to a specialist. In some cases, protective measures
such as dental sealants may be recommended. Before you
leave we will get you scheduled for the proper treatment.
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