Preventive dentistry
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems before they occur or progress. It involves various practices and procedures aimed at reducing the risk of dental diseases and oral infections.
What can I expect on my first visit?
X-ray
At Dr. Chan Dentistry, we rely on digital dental x-rays to reveal possible issues that our dentist cannot yet see. They allow us to see cavities between the teeth long before they are even visible to a dentist. It plays a crucial role in accurately diagnosing decay, bone loss, and other pathologies. X-rays are not taken at every appointment, but should be done regularly to provide optimal preventative care to patients. No pain does not mean everything is ok!
How can I help?
Dr. Chan and his team will make a friendly introduction welcoming you to the practice. This is an opportunity for you as a patient to get to know what you can expect, and express your concerns, any pain you are currently experiencing, questions, and dental goals.
Cleaning
Cleanings will generally be completed by one of our hygienists. They will often begin by evaluating your gum health and determine whether a simple cleaning or a deep cleaning is indicated. They will then proceed to remove plaque and tartar providing your gums with a healthy encouragement in the right direction. Next, the hygienist will polish and floss your teeth leaving them clean and shiny. Getting regular checkups at our dental office will help minimize tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. Finally, your hygienist will review oral health instructions on areas that may need improvement.
Exam
Our dentists will perform a thorough exam at the first appointment and every subsequent checkup. In addition to your teeth and gums, they will look at the entire oral cavity, lips, and neck for any signs of pathology. After the visual examination and detailed study of the radiographs, our dentists will then recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Personalized treatment plan
Based on what we uncover during your exam, you will work together with your d entist to create a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to fit your unique needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Preventive Treatment Options
Oral Prophylaxis
A professional teeth cleaning helps keep your teeth and gums looking great. Our dental hygienist will remove dental plaque and tartar that could otherwise lead to cavities, infection, or periodontal disease. An ultrasonic and polishing will also aid in getting rid of stains from smoking or drinking coffee, tea, wine, or juice. Great oral hygiene is a team effort between your provider and your own oral hygiene routine of brushing twice daily and flossing before bed.
X-rays
Our dentists recommend regularly taking x-rays to detect issues that cannot be seen visually. These include small cavities between the teeth and possible infections. Today’s digital x-rays are far superior in providing a comprehensive picture of your teeth while exposing you to 80% less radiation than traditional x-rays.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against decay. It is often applied on children and elderly patients in a varnish or gel form. After treatment, the patient will be instructed to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to penetrate the tooth fully.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are often recommended to children who have their adult molars. Our dentists or hygienist will apply sealant to the chewing surfaces of molars, which are particularly susceptible to decay due to their deep grooves.
The procedure is quick and painless.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings at Dr. Chan Dentistry are done regularly at checkup appointments to diagnose any signs of abnormal pathologies or growth in the oral cavity and jaw. Our dentists look for and take note of lumps, bumps, discoloration, or abnormalities on the head, neck, and oral cavity. If any areas raise a concern, a referral to a local oral surgeon may be given for evaluation. Early detection of any issues greatly increases the chance of recovery following treatment.
Night Guard
For patients who grind their teeth while asleep and wake up with jaw pain, our dentists may recommend a night guard. They are made of an acrylic and are custom designed to uniquely fit your teeth targeting areas of tenderness. It functions by preventing your teeth from touching, which allows the muscles of your jaw to relax, reducing tooth wear or waking up with jaw pain and headaches.
