How is this different to a routine examination?

What sets this apart from a regular check-up is that your initial consultation at Family Dental will be slightly lengthier. This is because our dentist will take the time to thoroughly go over your overall health and oral health concerns with you. It is important to gather all the necessary information in order to understand your specific dental requirements.

Routine Dental Health Consultation

Every appointment with us will begin by completing our unique 17 point dental health checklist and medical history form. This allows your dentist to accurately assess any changes or concerns you may have regarding your oral or overall health.

However, please note that the checklist serves as a general guide for us. Some areas may require minimal or no attention, while others may require more focused care and guidance from your dentist. We will always have a thorough discussion with you to determine which areas need to be addressed. Additionally, we will explain the reasoning behind our decisions and the conclusions we reach.

Therefore, while we refer to it as a routine dental health consultation, each visit with us will likely be slightly different as we tailor our approach to your individual needs.

Assess your overall health as well as your oral health

Were you aware that a dentist can detect various medical conditions, including certain types of cancer? The state of your oral health often serves as a reflection of your overall well-being. That’s why, at Family Dental, we conduct thorough examinations to provide you with comprehensive information about both your overall health and oral health.

Evaluate of your risk of tooth decay

Tooth decay can be triggered by various factors. For instance, consuming a diet rich in sugar or acid (such as fruit juice) can be addressed by making lifestyle adjustments. However, there are other less apparent causes. For instance, certain medications can lead to dry mouth, which in turn can contribute to cavities since adequate saliva flow aids in preventing tooth decay. Thus, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your cavity risk and offer guidance on preventive measures against tooth decay.

Examine for root caries

Root caries refer to a dental condition where a lesion develops on the root surface of a tooth, typically in close proximity to or below the gum line. Dentists commonly utilize radiographs to aid in the diagnosis of these caries. By examining the radiograph, they can identify early indications of a dull appearance and a weakening of the root surface.

Why it is important to check for root caries?

As patients age, their gums recede and expose the root surfaces, making them more prone to various issues. As a result, the elderly population is often more susceptible to root caries. Additionally, using certain medications that decrease saliva flow and cause dry mouth can also contribute to the development of root caries. Furthermore, any individual who is prone to dental caries and experiences gum recession can develop root caries.

To address root caries, treatment usually involves restoring the affected area with a dental restoration or crown. It may also be necessary to modify the individual’s oral hygiene routine, potentially using a toothpaste that contains a higher fluoride concentration.