Dental Exams & Cleanings

Dental Exam and The Game Plan for Success

At your initial visit, Dr. Vitz will enjoy getting to know you by sitting down with you for a private interview.  During the interview, he will review your Medical and Dental Histories and discuss your specific needs and concerns.  Then, a Comprehensive Dental Exam will be performed by Dr. Vitz and his team.   At this time, all existing restorations and any real or potential  problems will be recorded on your chart.  Intraoral Photographs will be taken to help communicate the findings to you.  All necessary X-rays are then taken and, if teeth are missing or you have an interest in Cosmetic Dentistry, upper and lower Diagnostic Models of your teeth will be made.

At your follow-up visit, Dr. Vitz will again sit down with you and discuss his findings and recommendations based on the data gathered at your initial visit.  Often, more than one Treatment Plan will be considered.  The fees for each Treatment Plan will be presented along with any Insurance Benefits that may apply.  Once you feel that all of your questions have been answered,  you will be in a good position to decide which Treatment Plan you prefer.  An appointment, or series of appointments, will be made to expedite your treatment.

During the treatment phase, we will try to complete your Treatment Plan in as few appointments as possible.  Comprehensive Dentistry is a valuable commodity and pre-planning your case is imperative.  We have found that taking the time to get to know each other, to discover what you want and what you need, and then establish a practical Game Plan for Success helps things go smoothly and greatly reduces anxiety and misunderstandings.  Once the Treatment Plan has been completed, you will be encouraged to maintain your investment in your health by keeping your periodic check-ups.

A professional dental cleaning (dental prophylaxis) is performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist.  This procedure is preventive in nature and implies that there is no significant gum disease.  Your cleaning appointment will include 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 and destroy the supporting bone.  This is the essence of Periodontal (Gum) Disease!
  • Removal of stain:  Teeth polishing removes stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during scaling.

After the cleaning you will get a check-up exam as your hygienist and Dr. Vitz will perform the following:

  • Gum disease evaluation:  Measure the gums and bone around the teeth for signs of periodontal disease.
  • Examination of tooth decay:  All tooth surfaces will be carefully checked for decay.
  • Examination of existing restorations:  Check integrity of current fillings, crowns, removable appliances, etc.
  • As needed, diagnostic digital x-rays:  Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss around the teeth.  X-rays also help determine tooth position and root length.
  • Oral cancer screening:  Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.  We are proud to offer the latest in early detection of oral cancer, the ViziLite System!