Exam and Radiography

Upon you Visit, Dr. Ego-Osuala will perform a comprehensive dental exam.  At regular check-up/exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:

	Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
	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 Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease or oral cancer.
	Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.

Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is an essential, preventative, diagnostic tool that provides valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam.  Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.  Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected. Dental x-rays may reveal the below and early detection and treatment of dental problems may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

	Bone loss
	Developmental abnormalities.
	Abscesses and cysts
	Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
	Decay between the teeth
	Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
	Poor tooth and root positions.

How often should dental x-rays be taken?

Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease and completion of you clinical examination. The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. 

A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients.  A full series is usually good for three to five years.  Bitewing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.