During the comprehensive exam, our team records a detailed medical and dental history. They will identify any underlying medical conditions that may impact or affect a patient’s health and treatment plan or prognosis. The examination includes:
Oral Cancer Screening / Velscope
During routine examinations, our dentists perform a thorough visual inspection to identify abnormal tissue in your mouth. Our preventative oral cancer screening can identify any pre-cancer or cancer tissue at a very early stage. There are certain factors that can put you at higher risk (i.e. tobacco and heavy alcohol use, age), however, oral cancer can happen to anyone. It is not a disease of the elderly and is in fact now becoming more common in the younger population.
A Velscope is a non-invasive hand held device that emits light and is about the size of a large flashlight. This device may be used to detect pre-cancerous and cancerous tissue in the mouth, that cannot be seen with the naked eye, and will determine if further testing is necessary. It is used as an early warning system since most patients do not have any symptoms. The exam is painless and takes about 5-10 minutes. If you are interested in having a Velscope exam, please ask any of our staff members.
Digital X-Rays
X-rays help in the detection of cavities that are between the teeth and cavities that are just forming. Early detection means less invasive and less costly treatment. Digital x-rays are able to show colour and also have “zoom” capabilities that allow for better viewing and understanding of diagnosis. Digital radiography also has much lower radiation exposure than the older film x-rays.
Periodontal (Gum) Examination
Gum disease is one of the primary causes of tooth loss. Our dentists and hygenists excel at preventative gum care and identify gum disease in the early stages. Periodontal exams check the bleeding points, pocket depth, recession, mobility and bone loss to evaluate the periodontal status of the patient. Since bone loss is a major consideration when determining any cosmetic treatment's outcome, we take the health of your bone tissues and gums very seriously.
Occlusal (Bite) Examination
There is often a need to evaluate the bite (occlusion) of a patient if the symptoms are consistent with an unstable bite. Bite forces affect the positioning of the teeth and jaws. By polishing the enamel surfaces and smoothing older fillings, our dentists will help you in redistributing and redirecting the bite force. Proper adjustments to the teeth surface can do away with headaches and other symptoms that result from improper biting patterns.
Caries Exam
During this exam our dentists locate any cavities in your mouth with a visual exam of the teeth and digital x-rays. This will allow them to see where there may be areas of fracture or decay. If treatment is required, the dentist will suggest the best course of treatment.
Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction Examination
Thousands of people are afflicted by Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction. Indicators of the condition include pain in the jaw joint or chewing muscles, radiating pain in the jaw, face, or neck, stiffness of the jaw muscle, locking or limited movement of the jaw, painful popping, grating or clicking in the jaw when you open or close your mouth and a change in the way the lower and upper teeth fit together. Our therapies are designed to help alleviate this frustrating and painful problem.