What Happens on My First Visit in Detail?

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Let’s break down the various components of a comprehensive dental examination:

​Dental Health Interview:

• We listen attentively to your concerns, past dental experiences, and expectations.
• Your input helps us understand any recurring problems and tailor our approach accordingly.
• We also inquire about your perception of your smile, as aesthetics matter too.

Comprehensive Medical History:

• Understanding your health history is crucial to provide safe, effective dental care.  We need to know your medical conditions, medications, allergies, etc

Digital Camera Pictures and iTero 3D Scanning- : pictures and 3D images allow us to document your oral condition.

• We capture details of teeth, soft tissues, and any visible abnormalities.
• We digitally scan your upper and lower teeth and gums as well as your bite with a 3D camera

Examination and Charting of Teeth and Existing Restorations:: We create a detailed chart of your teeth,

• We chart missing teeth
• We inspect and chart teeth for stains, chips, cracks, cavities, malformations, excessive wear
• Existing dental restorations (fillings, crowns, etc.) are evaluated and charted.

Soft Tissue Exam (Oral Cancer Screening):

• We carefully examine various areas in your mouth, including cheeks, palate, throat, tongue, floor of the mouth, and lips.
• Our goal is to identify any abnormalities, such as ulcers, oral cancer, cysts, benign tumors, or signs of cancer from other parts of the body.
• Regular screenings are essential for early detection and better treatment outcomes.

Periodontal Exam: We evaluate gum tissues for color, contours, and texture.

• Signs of gingivitis (redness, swelling, bleeding) are noted. Healthy gums appear pink, have a stippled surface, and do not bleed.
• A periodontal probe measures gingival pockets and recessions around each tooth.
• We assess plaque buildup, furcation defects, and tooth mobility.

Digital Radiographs (X-rays):These play a crucial role in assessing oral health.

• Bitewings detect cavities between teeth and assess bone loss.
• Periapicals focus on individual teeth, identifying issues like abscesses and root fractures.
• Panoramic images assess overall mouth health, including impacted teeth and jaw alignment.

Evaluation of Your Bite:

• We assess how your upper and lower teeth function in relation to each other.
• Improper alignment, heavy contacts, excessive wear, and headaches are considered.
• Jaw-Joint and Muscle Assessment:
• We palpate jaw muscles for tenderness, perform joint loading tests, evaluate jaw movement range, and listen for joint sounds.
• This helps identify potential jaw-related issues.

Treatment Plan Consultation:

• We provide a printed summary of necessary treatments and estimated costs.
• Treatment options, consequences of not receiving treatment, and preventive measures are explained.
• We discuss financial aspects and estimated dental benefit coverage.
• Your active participation throughout the process is encouraged.

​Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need additional information
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