Dental Exams & Teeth Cleanings in Edmonton

Why are dental exams and cleaning your teeth so important? Learn about dental exams and teeth cleanings in Edmonton at Today's Dental.

Professional Prevention

A preventive program is a cooperative effort by the patient, dentist, and dental team to preserve the natural dentition and supporting structures by preventing the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases and conditions. Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet. It is continued in the dental office by the efforts of your dentist and dental hygienist to promote, restore, and maintain your oral health.

Prevention also includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays. Sealants and fluoride are also great preventive treatments that help protect the teeth. Prevention helps avoid serious and costly dental problems and is the key to having a healthy smile.

Dental Exams in Edmonton

A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit.

At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist 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.
TMJ & Bite Evaluation: we examine muscles of the head and neck, jaw movements and the TMJ joint. We also check how the teeth fit together in the bite.
Sleep Apnea Screening: we screen all our patients for possible sleep apnea and recommend appropriate action.
Digital Photographs: we take digital photographs of the mouth and teeth, so we can show you what we see, and explain the findings of the dental examination so you can understand the issues, if any.

Professional Teeth Cleaning in Edmonton

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered 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 may indicate the start of periodontal disease.
Teeth polishing: remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
Periodontal Pocket Measurements: we measure the periodontal pockets at each tooth to evaluate gums and bone health.

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