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Writer's pictureThe Tooth Doctors

The Importance of a New Patient Exam

March 6, 2013 by admin

At The Tooth Doctors we strive to provide our patients with the best possible care, using the most current and up to date techniques and technologies. As a new patient, your initial visit with us will be the most important. This appointment allows you a great introduction to our office, an opportunity to meet our fantastic staff and Dr. Wong, learn about our philosophies on oral health and, most importantly, the completion of a thorough and comprehensive exam.  The New Patient Exam is scheduled with Dr. Wong and consists of:


Review of your medical history:

Diseases such as diabetes, gastric-intestinal disorders, blood disorders, heart disorders, or autoimmune disorders can have early manifestation in the oral cavity. If applicable, be sure to bring your current and complete medication list as some medications can have an effect on the teeth and gums causing tooth decay and gum disease.

Extra-oral exam:

Examination of your head and neck muscles to detect TMJ dysfunction, grinding, clenching and/or poor jaw and tooth alignment.

Intra-oral exam:

Evaluation of how your teeth come together as an assessment of your bite can determine if there are extra forces causing pressure on individual teeth.

Examination and charting of all the teeth as well as any restorations  to assess for decay or breaking down fillings.

Assessment of your periodontal (gum) health, measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth in order to help  us determine the amount of gum inflammation or if there is gum disease present.

Velscope Oral Cancer Screening:

Oral cancer is becoming more and more common and is not limited to the older population or those who smoke. An oral cancer screening is performed using the Velscope, which can detect abnormalities in oral mucosa.

Photos:

We believe that patient education is very important and for that reason,we will take photographic pictures to educate you on an areas of concern that we find.

X-Rays:

X-rays are an important tool that show the condition of your teeth, its roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-rays help determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, bone loss, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumors. X-rays also can show the exact location of impacted and unerupted teeth. They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination.

This initial visit lasts approximately 1 hour. It is our standard of care and important in that it allows Dr. Wong to determine a baseline for your oral health and diagnose any problem areas so that the best treatment can be performed. This appointment is an ideal time to let Dr. Wong know if there are things about your smile that you don’t like or concern you. Any questions or concerns will be answered.

Make an appointment today!

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