Preventive care

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Our office believes there is more to oral health than “I just need a cleaning.” Based on individual needs, our patients are asked to return at 3, 4 or 6 month intervals for oral prophylaxis (teeth cleaning) and examinations. Radiographs are an important aspect of diagnosis and they are recommended at intervals based on each patient’s dental treatment history and evidence of generalized dental disease. Patients wearing full dentures are encouraged to visit yearly for visual examination of soft tissues and evaluation of the dentures.

 

Radiographs (x-rays)

Digital x-ray equipment is used for full mouth series x-rays (new patients), bitewing x-rays (taken yearly), and periapical x-rays (diagnosis of a problem with a specific tooth). Panoramic x-rays are used to evaluate oral disease, wisdom teeth, temporal mandibular joints, and bone height in the jaws for implant candidates.

 

Fluoride & Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is one of the most cost effective and beneficial treatments to help strengthen teeth and prevent decay. The fluoridation of water is also known to prevent tooth decay and is considered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as "one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century". Fluoride treatments can also be administered at regular intervals through a foam or topical varnish. These treatments are beneficial in the fight against tooth decay. We recommend fluoride treatments for children and patients who are cavity prone or who have poor oral hygiene.