Dental Exams & Cleanings

Dental Exam

A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by Dr.Slepchik at your initial dental visit.  At regular check-up exams, Kinga or Melanie, our hygienists, will include 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 signs 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.
  • All charts are reviewed again following the regular check up exams a second time by Dr.Slepchik.

 

 

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Certified Dental Hygienists. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:

 
 

  • Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
  • Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

At the end of this appointment, Dr.Slepchik will review your chart again after your appointment and set up a treatment plan. He will use the notes from the exam and review the radiographs as well. You will discuss your options together, ask your questions, and prioritize what is neccessary.  Dental treatments have many stages, and you must decide how you wish to proceed, depending on your availability with your work situation, the length of time you can comfortably sit in the chair and other factors.  Anna or Kathy will make flexible payment arrangements with you that  are comfortable for everyone.  Every single patient that sees our hygenists has the chart reviewed again by Dr.Slepchik.  His attention to detail is essential to his working style.