Dental Exams & Cleanings

Dental Cleaning

What it is:

A professional dental cleaning consists of the following:

• Removal of calculus (tartar)
  • Occurs when plaque that is not removed through daily cleanings hardens
  • When occurs above gum line it can cause tissues to become swollen and bleed
• Removal of plaque
  • A sticky film that covers teeth
  • Contains bacteria that release acids that attack the enamel of the teeth breaking it down causing cavities to develop
• Teeth polishing
  • Removes most stains on teeth resulting in a whiter smile
• Patient education by dental hygienist of proper dental hygiene care
  • Demonstrates proper brushing and flossing techniques
  • Explains the importance of a healthy diet to keep teeth healthy

Patient Benefits:

Professional dental cleanings prevent gum disease that can cause losing teeth earlier in life, reduces chance of heart attacks and strokes by preventing gum disease which is linked to cardiovascular disease, helps save money and reduces need for further dental treatment.

Dental Exam

What it is:

A dental exam consists of the following:

• Diagnostic digital x-rays
  • Detect cavities between teeth, determine bone level, analyze health of bone, examine roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions like cyst or tumors, detect decay or infection under existing crown or filling, and detect cracks in crowns or filling
  • Will take bitewing, full mouth, pano or CT
• Oral cancer screening
  • Where Dr. Zaugg checks lips, cheek lining, gums, front part of tongue, floor of mouth, roof of mouth, throat (pharynx)
    at the soft part at the roof of mouth, tonsils, back section of tongue
    and where tongue attaches to the bottom of the mouth
  • Dr. Zaugg will feel jaw and neck for any lumps or abnormalities
• Gum disease evaluation
  • Periodontal disease
• Examination of tooth decay
• Examination of existing dental restorations
• Examination of alignment of teeth and jaw
  • Look for evidence of grinding or TMJ
• Examination of a child’s growth patterns
  • Look for potential problems as teeth develop
• Treatment plan is presented with priority of procedures and estimation of cost of procedures
  • Patients can take home and discuss with significant other, get understanding on procedures and go over finances
• Time where patients’ questions and concerns can be answered
  • Patients can ask about certain dental diseases to get tips and treatment options
  • Parents of kids can ask questions about what to expect as child develops

Patient Benefits:

Dental exams detect early signs of any problems like tooth fractures or leaking fillings, can detect signs of oral cancer and give the patient the opportunity to ask Dr. Zaugg questions about their oral health.