Initial Dental Exam

During your initial visit to Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski wants you to understand what's included in a thorough dental examination because we believe that it is vital to be an active participant in your dental care.  When we examine your mouth, we look for signs of periodontal disease, tooth decay, and bite problems.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum and bone supporting the teeth causing loss of support and cavities or pockets between the gum, bone and tooth.  Since you may have no symptoms with periodontal disease, we use visual examination, a periodontal probe and X-rays to look for it.  During your exam, we look for red and swollen gums as in this example of early periodontal disease.

We also use a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pocket from where the gums are attached to the tooth to the top of the gums.  A probe reading of more that 3 mm is a sign of periodontal disease.  And, the deeper the pocket, the greater the spread of the disease.  Sometimes gums bleed when we probe.  Bleeding is a sign of infection.  Healthy gums don't bleed.

 

X-rays also show us allot about periodontal disease.  In a healthy mouth, the bone completely covers the roots of the teeth and is even throughout the mouth.  In advanced periodontal disease, the bone level is much lower and uneven.

 During an exam, we also look for tooth decay.  Tooth decay is produced by acids which is caused by certain types of bacteria in the mouth.  The acids dissolve tooth structure and cause cavities in the tooth.  Some cavities are easy to see, but for hard to see cavities, we may use a dental explorer and X-rays.  A dental explorer sticks slightly when it contacts decayed surfaces on the top and sides of teeth.  We also use X-rays to look for cavities.  Cavities between the teeth show up as dark spots.

During your check-up, we also inspect your bite.  When you chew, a healthy mouth allows all of your teeth to  hit simultaneously, chewing muscles to contract evenly, and your jaw joint to be seated in it's proper position.  However, misaligned teeth can trap bacteria leading to periodontal disease and tooth decay.  Bite problems can also contribute to difficulties with your jaw joint, the TMJ.  It can also cause tooth grinding and clenching, resulting in the loss of enamel near the gum line.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we believe that it is important to monitor the health of your mouth regularly because dental problems can grow quickly and lead to worsening infections, tooth loss, and an unattractive appearance.  For a free smile saving exam with Dr. Dulski, visit http://www.dulski.com/.

Tags: Dental Examination, Gum Disease, Periodontal Disease, Tooth Decay, TMJ Disorder, Dental X-rays