SPRING CLEANING:
Your house is immaculate after MANY hours of effort. All dust bunnies have been eradicated and the floor is so clean that your toddler could eat off it (and might!) When was the last time you had a complete evaluation and thorough cleaning of your mouth? A clean healthy mouth feels and functions better. If you have a family or personal history of gum disease or high cavity rate then a comprehensive assessment on a regular basis becomes even more essential. Early detection and treatment of dental diseases result in easier less expensive care. Waiting "until it hurts" is a sure way to drive up the cost of your care as well as the time involved to obtain it. Comprehensive care begins with a thorough exam.
An initial dental exam consists of several components. A family and personal health history is required prior to dental treatment. Many factors can influence the overall health of your. mouth. Diabetes affects gum disease and gum disease affects diabetes in a particularly nasty feedback cycle. Over-the-counter supplements can affect the course of treatment (garlic, for example, will increase bleeding tendencies). Nicotine use of any form can and will affect the oral tissues in a way that requires regular supervision.
Radiographs (x-rays) are a necessary component as they allow the dentist to visualize areas of concern in your mouth unable to be detected with a clinical oral exam Newer films and techniques have greatly reduced the amount of radiation you would be exposed to during dental x-rays.
Your muscles of mastication (chewing) and your temporomandibular joints are evaluated for signs and symptoms of clenching or grinding habits.
The next component of a thorough exam is an oral cancer screening. Your neck is palpated for swollen lymph nodes and your thyroid gland is also evaluated. Your skin is also observed for early signs of cancer. Your oral cavity (lips, palate, oral mucosa and tongue) is examined and evaluated for signs of pathologic processes.
Finally, your teeth are inspected for signs of cavities, excessive wear from parafunctional dental habits (grinding/clenching) and esthetic concerns. A very important part of the dental evaluation is a complete measurement of the health of your gums. Gum disease is often a painless process which if caught and treated early is a controllable one.
The most important part of the thorough dental examination is the education given to you by your dental health professionals. You need to be aware of the status of your health and informed of the care that can be provided to obtain optimal oral health as well as what you can do to maintain your healthy smile!
You may call (720) 851-1676 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Theresa Albin-Davis has a family oriented
practice devoted to preventing dental disease and maintaining
your family's oral health through education and gentle,
comprehensive, quality dental care. In addition to teaching part-time
at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry, she contributes
a significant amount of time to the Headstart Program.
You can schedule
an appointment by calling 720-851-1676
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