We are confident you will find your experience of a thorough comprehensive dental examination at our office informative, and pleasantly different from any other dental visit you have had in the past. Your visit should take approximately one hour, but may be longer depending upon each patient’s specific needs. If your first visit to Prezioso Dental is for an emergency or for a comprehensive examination, please plan to arrive about ten minutes early in order to complete some documents necessary to establish your dental records with our office. We confirm your insurance information before your visit; however please bring all pertinent information so that we may better assist you with receiving your benefits.
Your visit will consist of:
1. The Dental Examination. A thorough review of your teeth. Besides looking for cavities, we carefully examine the existing condition of your mouth for signs of breakdown, wear or fracture, and record the information in your electronic dental record.
2. Digital X-rays: If you have not had any dental radiographs recently or they are of poor quality, we will recommend a panorex x-ray, which is a single film of the entire mouth and jaw. In addition, bitewing (cavity check) and periapical (root) x-rays are also important. We may also decide to do a full mouth series (all individual), depending on your needs. Digital=70-80% less radiation.
3. Gums: We will asses your periodontal (gum) status. The examination will sometimes include periodontal probing to determine the extent of each individual's condition. We now know gum disease is very serious, and can affect the entire body and therefore will not be overlooked.
4.TMJ Exam: The jaw exam involves an assessment of the TMJ (jaw joint) as well as the muscles surrounding the jaw (chewing muscles), and the occlusion (your bite). Some people suffer from what is termed TMD (Temporo Mandibular Dysfunction), which is weakness, pain, popping and clicking sounds, or other symptoms while chewing. Other signs are termed bruxism, an unconscious clenching or grinding of the teeth. These conditions are important to diagnose in the early stages, so preventative measures can be put in place.
5. Oral Cancer Screening: A thorough exam of the surrounding tissues will be done.
We strive to deliver the best comprehensive exam experience. We hope you agree, and allow our team at Prezioso Dental to serve your dental health needs.