What happens at a routine dental exam?
Patients of all ages should see their Fort Smith general dentist every 6 months or more frequently if oral or systemic health warrants. Dr. Lopez and his team firmly believe that regular check-ups and professional cleanings at New Smile Dental prevent decay and gum disease from ruining tooth enamel and destroying gum tissue and underlying bone.
Additionally, Dr. Lopez checks checks every patient’s mouth for signs of oral cancer--a sometimes hidden, but nonetheless, potentially deadly malady that strikes more than 45,000 American adults annually. Caught early, oral cancer can be successfully treated.
Further, a thorough dental exam includes:
- assessment of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction
- check for bite problems (orthodontic screening)
- assessment of existing dental work such as fillings, crowns, and bridges
- check for dental decay
- probing of gum pockets to check for gingivitis and more advanced periodontitis
- visual inspection for signs of oral cancer
- low radiation digital x-rays, if needed, to check for hidden decay and look at bone and root structure
Finally, a skilled, friendly hygienist cleans a patient’s teeth during a 6-month appointment with your Fort Smith general dentist. She carefully removes the sticky plaque and hard tartar that build-up in the tight spaces between teeth and under the gum line. This is biofilm that at-home brushing and flossing just cannot reach. Yet, it holds oral bacteria that secrete enamel-damaging acids and that infect the gum tissue. When teeth and gums are free of plaque and tartar, they thrive and are less prone to serious dental issues.
Research also shows that oral health and overall health are linked, and in fact, what a general dentist sees in a patient’s mouth can indicate what’s happening elsewhere in the body. Periodontal disease correlates with:
- diabetes
- stroke
- heart attack
- Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia
- rheumatoid arthritis
- low birth weight infants
- pregnancy complications
A comprehensive treatment plan ensures future health
Dr. Lopez addresses immediate needs and also cosmetic goals each patient has. He devises an individualized treatment plan. This can include necessary restorations such as gum disease therapy or fillings and aesthetic treatments such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers.
Preventive dentistry is necessary dentistry
A word to the wise: keep on brushing and flossing every day, but also schedule a dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Gilbert Lopez. His expertise and gentle, thorough care will keep you smiling and healthy no matter what your age. Contact his professional team today.
