There are many things that are accomplished during your regular dental hygiene visit. First our hygienist, Nancy, will ask about any important changes in your medical or dental history. Remember to mention any changes in medication or supplements you are currently taking, no matter how insignificant you think they might be. At some point during the appointment, dental x-rays may be taken to visualize areas between teeth and around the roots of your teeth that Dr. Balaze can't examine with his dental instruments or see with his eyes. In our Beachwood, Ohio dental office, we utilize the latest digital x-ray sensor made by Dexis.
If necessary, measurements of your gums may be recorded to evaluate the presence and severity of any inflammation present. We measure 6 different locations on each tooth in your mouth! Inflammatory cells found present in patients with gum disease have been linked to many systemic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Quick fact - over 75% of Americans have some form of gum disease, and only 3% of them know about it!
Lastly, after your teeth have been scaled and polished, both Dr. Balaze and Nancy screen for any signs of oral cancer using some of the latest tools available. Then, Dr. Balaze completes his evaluation of the information gathered during the appointment, and examines each tooth in your mouth to make sure that all of your teeth are as healthy as they can be.
All these steps are taken to make sure that we can provide you with the highest level of care possible. Your regular dental "check-up" is always our highest priority, and is never, ever, "just a cleaning".