Thorough Exams & Cleanings for Optimum Oral Health
Whether you are in for your first appointment, having a routine check-up, or a concern in a specific area, a dental exam is a necessary step in diagnosing oral health issues and can also help identify other underlying overall health issues. Our team focuses on all areas of the mouth to provide a thorough, comprehensive exam and diagnosis.
Oral cancer screening
Our team will check for any signs of oral cancer on the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums. If any signs of oral cancer are present, we may use the VELscope to assist with our examination. The VELscope is a handheld device that emits a harmless, bright blue light that is used to inspect the mouth and tongue. The device is sensitive to abnormal tissue changes, and the distinctive blue-spectrum light causes the soft tissue of the mouth to naturally fluoresce. Healthy tissues fluoresce in distinct patterns that may be visibly disrupted when tissue undergoes an abnormal change, which can occur in the oral mucosa for a multitude of reasons, such as oral cancer.
Gum disease evaluation
A thorough examination of the surrounding tissues of the teeth is performed to check for any signs of periodontal disease. The gums are carefully measured below the gumline next to the tooth to determine if they are healthy or if periodontal disease is present and needs to be treated.
Examination of existing restorations
We also inspect any existing fillings, crowns, etc. to check for any signs of wear or damage. Over the years, your existing fillings and crowns can break down and may need restoration or replacement to function well.
Examination of tooth decay
All surfaces of the teeth are checked for signs of decay. Digital x-rays are used to check the surfaces not visible in the mouth. If any tooth decay is present, our team will provide a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs with all your options to restore your teeth back to a healthy functioning dentition.
Digital x-rays
X-rays are essential for the detection of decay, tumours, cysts, and bone loss. They also help us determine the position of the tooth as well as the roots. Digital x-rays use smallest dosage of radiation possible. They are recommended every other year to check for routine maintenance, if there has been trauma to a tooth, or if there is a concern that cannot be diagnosed with a visual exam.
Dental Cleanings for a Brighter, Healthier Smile
Routine dental cleanings are the first step to a confident smile. Our teeth can often become yellow or stained over time and cannot be thoroughly cleaned without professional help. Professional dental cleanings are performed by a registered dental hygienist for adults and by a certified dental assistant for children and will include the following:
Calculus removal
Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. It can only be removed with proper dental instruments. Removal of calculus formed above the gum line is called scaling, and the removal of calculus formed below the gum line is called root planing.
Plaque removal
Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms as a colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva over time. The bacteria are toxic and can break down the enamel and cause the formation of cavities as well as inflammation of the gums, which is the beginning of periodontal diseases.
Teeth polishing
A special polishing cup and paste are used to remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed from the teeth during home care or with professional scaling.
Fluoride treatment
A Fluoride varnish treatment is brushed on each tooth. This high-intensity fluoride is taken up by the freshly polished surface of the enamel and helps to strengthen it. The varnish forms a coating on the tooth surface within seconds, so no more waiting half an hour before eating or drinking, with the exception of hot beverages that may melt it off.