Our Dental Hygiene Department

Our hygienists are thoroughly-trained specialists whose lifelong experience is recognizing and treating periodontal (or gum) conditions. They pride themselves in the comprehensive - services provided. In our office it is not "just a cleaning." Your 3, 4 or 6 month visit will include:

• A thorough medical history update - including blood pressure screenings. Many of our patients note that they see us more than their physicians! Our blood pressure screenings have detected several cases of high blood pressure, which were then referred to their physicians for evaluation and treatment. Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart attack or stroke.
  Many systemic conditions and medications have a direct impact on our oral health. Heart disease, diabetes and use of blood thinning medication are only a few of these. We strive to treat your mouth as the "gateway" to the rest of your body. We will make phone calls to your physicians or specialists when necessary. This working partnership allows us to provide you with the high level of care you deserve.
• Oral Cancer Screenings - According to the American Cancer Society, oral cancer occurs almost as frequently as leukemia and claims more lives than cervical cancer and melanoma. A routine exam of oral cancer is appropriate and necessary. In our office we do a visual exam along with utilizing the Velscope. (see Advanced Technology)
• Dental Exams - Our hygienists can show you what they are seeing by using the Intraoral camera (see Advanced Technology). During the exam, we will address any current concerns you may have about your teeth and gums, along with past concerns. Viewing an image of your mouth on the television monitor allows us to communicate your diagnosis and treatment options.
• Periodontal Exams - Our gums surround the tooth much like a moat or trench. The space is called the sulcus. We know the depth of the sulcus should stay very shallow (1-3 mm) allowing for proper cleaning with a toothbrush or floss. When bacterial plaque is allowed to accumulate in the sulcus, the tissue becomes inflamed and the "trench" gets deeper. We now call that increased depth a "pocket." This gum inflammation can quickly spread to the underlying supportive bone resulting in tooth loss. We do a thorough "periodontal exam" which measures the depth of the sulcus around each tooth and then discuss your treatment options.
• Periodontal (Gum) Diseases - We invite you to view our extensive Caesy presentation about gum disease and their treatments. Our office is extensively trained to provide these periodontal treatments for you.
  
  Click the thumbnail below to learn more about Peridontal Disease.
  
  
  
  
• Nutritional Counseling - Decay is on the rise! Our fast food diets loaded with soft carbohydrates, sugar and acids are contributing to the increase in dental decay. We are also finding a higher incidence of dental erosion due to gastric problems. This can result in tooth sensitivity and loss of valuable enamel. Our hygienists will discuss their findings and educate you on the role that certain foods and liquids may be playing in your overall health.