Hygiene & Prevention

Oral Health Examination

Professional examinations by your dentist help to diagnose dental issues before they become more severe.

Dental examinations at our office generally include:

• Examination of teeth, gums and mouth
• Oral cancer screening
• Digital X-rays

Professional Hygiene Cleanings

Visiting our office regularly for professional cleanings can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

A professional cleaning with your dentist or hygienist will:

• Clean plaque from the teeth
• Remove calculus (tartar) above and below the gum line
• Polishing to remove stains from teeth

Periodontal Disease & Your Oral Health

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is one of the most common dental issues our dentists see. Despite patients' best efforts to maintain good oral health through home care, gum disease may still occur – and may require gum therapy treatment.

• Symptoms

  In the earliest stages of gum disease there are no symptoms readily evident. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Sore or swollen gums
  • Red or purple gums
  • Receding gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Persistent bad breath
• Diagnosis

  A process which measures the depth of the pockets around each tooth is used to diagnose gum disease. Pockets that are greater than 3 mm in depth are considered hazardous and will typically require treatment.

  The prevention and early detection of gum disease is another reason to see your dentist regularly for examinations and cleanings.

• Treatment

  Gum disease is treated by removing the bacteria and substances that form in the pockets around the teeth. Removing this material occurs on a microscopic level and requires a dental professional. Our dental team can effectively remove the damaging bacteria from your teeth and gums.

  This process generally requires several visits to our office. Once the bacteria has been removed, the pockets must be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis by your dentist. Otherwise, the bacteria will continue to damage the bone.

• Long-Term Care

  Once you gum disease has been allowed to develop in your mouth, even after treatment you will always need to pay extra attention to your dental health.

  A diligent at-home hygiene routine and regular dental cleanings will be required to keep the bone in your mouth and jaw from deteriorating. 

  After we treat the initial problem, 'periodontal maintenance' appointments will be recommended every 3-4 months.