Complete Oral Evaluation
The complete oral examination is a “physical” from the neck up. This exam includes
oral cancer, soft tissue, and extensive gum evaluations. We also evaluate the teeth
for decay and failing restorations as well as check TMJ and bite functions. From
this information we can give you the necessary information for making an informed
decision about any oral health needs.
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Dental Hygiene Services
It’s not “just a cleaning” anymore. Our hygienists with the Smile Center are dedicated
to providing patients with complete preventive care. Hygiene services include oral
cancer screenings, gum evaluations, the removal of deposits from the teeth as well
as polishing. The hygienists are trained to take various x-rays, instruct and customize
your self-care techniques and inform you of the ideal treatments for your mouth.
Our hygienists are focused on helping our patients save their teeth through the
prevention of decay and management of periodontal disease.
Our friendly support staff will schedule and confirm your appointment and periodically
remind you when it is time to schedule your next appointment.
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Sealants
Prevention is an important part of dental care. We can fight cavities before they
start by applying dental sealants. A dental sealant is a resin material applied
to the pits and grooves on the tooth surface. On these teeth, the depressions and
grooves are so narrow and deep that the bristles of a toothbrush can’t reach into
them, allowing places for plaque and food to hide. The sealant bonds into the depressions
and grooves and acts as a barrier protecting the enamel.
Patients of all ages can benefit from dental sealants. While children and teenagers
are obvious candidates, adults can also be at risk for tooth decay. Sealants usually
last for many years before a reapplication is needed, and as long as the sealant
stays intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay.
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Periodic Exam
This is the examination of the mouth that insurance has trained us to think should
only be done every six months. The importance of this examination is to find any
changes in our mouths when it is a small change and not a big change.
The frequency of this examination should be based on past dental history and the
current medical conditions of our bodies. Certain diseases of the body and medications
change the conditions in our mouths making some patients more prone to Periodontal
Disease and/or decay.
At the Smile Center we base the frequency of the Periodic Exam on the conditions
of our patients’ mouths and health history. We always include an oral cancer screening,
periodontal disease risk screening, evaluate for decay (cavities) and failing fillings.
Our goal is provide our patients with excellent preventive dentistry.
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Bite Guards
A bite guard (occlusal guard) is a horseshoe shaped piece of clear acrylic which
is worn over the teeth to protect them against damage caused by clenching or grinding
(bruxism). It works by creating a physical barrier between your upper and lower
teeth so that you bite against the plastic rather than wearing down or cracking
your teeth.
We make many types of bite guards. The selection of styles depends on the intensity
and duration of the tooth grinding habit and comfort to the patient. They also help
to protect and stabilize your jaw joint.
We will work with you to custom fit the appliance and monitor you and your guard
at your hygiene visit. Many people sleep better when wearing their guard at night.
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