What happens in a dental exam?
During a Forestville Family Dental exam, we examine your mouth and then take a set of digital dental X-rays so we can analyze your tongue, gums, teeth, bite, and jaw and find any issues off the bat. These may include potential cavities and places of decay. We also look for evidence of serious health issues, such as gum disease and oral cancer.
We always like to have the best picture possible of our patients’ health. Our staff will ask you lots of questions about your dental and medical history, which will help us develop the treatment that fits your situation. Certain medications and health conditions can affect dental care, so we must know the necessary details before we can start your treatment.
Depending on what we find in the exam, we will walk you through your care options as well as discuss good dental hygiene habits you can develop to protect your teeth from future problems.
Oral cancer screenings
We always screen for oral cancer during exams, looking for any possible abnormalities on your gums, lips, mouth, and/or throat. Those at higher risk for oral cancer include individuals with a family history of oral cancers, tobacco users, GERD patients, and heavy drinkers. Even if you don’t belong to one of these groups, it’s still recommended that you get an annual oral cancer screening. The early detection of oral cancer is vitally important and often life-saving.
Dental Cleanings
Our standard when doing dental cleanings is to provide you a top-notch service and maximize your comfort. All of our dental hygienists are gentle, professional, and experienced. Our cleanings consist of removing plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth, ridding your teeth of surface stains, looking for any potential problems throughout your mouth and throat, and discussing good strategies for at-home hygiene, including flossing and brushing techniques.
The cleanings we do for children focus on comfort, calmness, and friendliness. If your child is scared of going to the dentist, then it will be harder for them to develop good dental habits at an early age. Our pediatric dentistry appointments are always easy going and fun.
CFH (Cleaning From Home)
The dental habits you develop and maintain play a huge part in the ongoing health of your smile. Here are some tips that we recommend for everybody between dental cleanings.
- Brush effectively twice a day
- Floss regularly
- Avoid smoking, excessive sugar and soda consumption
- Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride
- Continue to schedule professional dental cleanings once or twice a year, depending on your individual treatment plan with us
Feel ready for a cleaning?
Don’t worry if it’s been too long since your last exam or cleaning. We welcome new and returning patients whenever is right for them. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment for you or your child.
