Services

Maintenance

For the health of your mouth and your smile, we recommend a cleaning twice a year. The doctors may recommend more frequent visits (3 to 6 times per year) for patients with special needs.
Dental cleaning includes removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. The hygienist also cleans just below the gum line to prevent the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease. If necessary, the doctors may either use a local anesthetic ("Novocain") or nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") for those patients with increased sensitivity or anxiety.

Routine Examination and X-Ray

A comprehensive examination is recommended at least once a year. It covers the teeth, gums, lining of the mouth, tongue, and salivary glands. In addition to looking for evidence of tooth decay, gum disease and other conditions affecting the health of the mouth, the dentist will also evaluate the patterns and behaviors of the patient that affect oral health. Things like smoking, drinking, recreational drug use or even clenching teeth that may affect the condition of the teeth, gums and jaw.
When needed, X-rays are taken to see what is going on underneath with the roots, jaw and bone structure. A full set of X-rays is typically done once every five years. They include cavity detection as well as bite-wing analysis.

Periodontal Maintenance

Patients with gum disease need to be seen more often to monitor the condition as well as provide complete maintenance. The maintenance program for gum disease alternates between dentist office visits and visits to a periodontal specialist. Gum disease, even when treated, is still susceptible to inflammation and infection from plaque and tartar. Regular oral hygiene is not enough to prevent this, so special care is required.