Prevention is the key to long term oral health and the ongoing task of maintaining your dental health takes place at home, through your daily brushing and flossing routine. Many people carry a toothbrush with them and keep an extra in their desk, car or purse to allow for regular brushing after meals.
Daily preventative measures are required and necessary. Nevertheless, bacteria are inclined to still lurk around the teeth and gum lines, and this can cause tooth decay and early signs of gum problems. Regular dental exams and cleanings are necessary to eliminate the risk of future oral health problems.
will perform a comprehensive dental examination. Your initial oral examination includes a visual examination, charting, periodontal probing, diagnosis and treatment recommendations. We will also take necessary x-rays, which include digital x-rays for proper diagnosis of the anterior (front) and posterior (back) teeth as well as the bite-wing x-ray series for proper diagnosis of proximal decay of posterior teeth. A thorough cleaning (prophylaxis) is also recommended at the first visit.
Gingivitis and Gum Disease
Oral exams done during dental cleanings are used to detect the onset of gum disease. In younger children and teens, gum disease is often a result of improper brushing techniques. Left untreated, gingivitis can set in, and inflammation of the gums will occur. Not all gingivitis is caused from poor brushing however. Hormonal changes, particularly in females, can cause bacterial changes that lead to gingivitis. Dr. Block and her staff offer solutions that can address these problems.
Older adults are at risk for periodontal disease, often referred to as receding gums. In essence, the inner layer of gum and bone pull away from the teeth and leave pockets. These pockets allow debris to collect and bacteria to form. Left untreated, the bacteria can grow to a level where the body has a difficult time fighting it, and infection may set in. These types of infections can spread throughout the body and early detection and prevention are the keys to avoiding such a health risk
Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays are used as a diagnostic tool to view the bone structure of the jaw, as well as the tooth condition below the visible gum line. Any root, bone, and growth issues will show on the x-rays. The cost of the x-rays are generally covered by most major dental insurance plans and are a vital component of providing quality dental health services. This is particularly important in children who are losing ‘baby’ teeth and gaining their second set of teeth. Teens often need treatment as wisdom teeth grow, and x-rays can reveal issues such as possible impacted wisdom teeth.
Dental exams include the use of advanced technology to provide the most accurate diagnosis possible. Your teeth, gums and overall oral health will be thoroughly evaluated, allowing Dr. Block to determine any potential problem areas and formulate an effective treatment plan that is best for you.
Dr. Block recommends that each patient undergo a comprehensive oral exam twice a year to keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent serious dental issues from arising in the future.
