A complete and comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will perform the following;
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs):essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Oral cancer screening: check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues and gums for any sign of oral cancer
- Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease
- Examination of tooth decay: all tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments
- Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
Digital X-rays
Digital radiography (x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor instead of x-ray film, that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping your dentist and dental hygienist detect problems more easily. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.
Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
- Abscess or cysts
- Bone loss
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
- Decay between the teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Poor teeth and root positions
- Problems inside the tooth or below the gum line
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort and your teeth!
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk of disease.
Composite Fillings
Cavities and small fractures can cause much larger issues if left untreated. A composite filling(tooth coloured) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay,cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.
Composites serve both functional and aesthetic roles, often at the same time. They can be closely matched to the colour of existing teeth.
We do composite fillings for
- Chipped teeth
- Closing space between two teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Worn teeth
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new fillings.
Tooth coloured composite resins blend into the tooth structure and are chemically bonded to the tooth providing a strong long-lasting restoration.
As with other kind of restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced.
