The dental exam: What to expect

A clinical exam is more commonly referred to as a routine check up. A new patient exam lets our dentist essentially take inventory of the overall health of your mouth and teeth and diagnose any potential problems you may have.

A. The first thing we will check during the exam is your face and neck. Checking visually, we will look for any abnormalities, such as lumps, bumps or swelling.

B. Checking inside your mouth is next on the agenda. During this part of the check up our dentist will be looking for any abnormalities in the soft tissue, such as discolorations or ulcers on your lips, gums, tongue, palate and cheeks. We will also perform an oral cancer screening and will check your bite and your jaw joint for any problems.

C. Next we’ll will check your gums and jawbone, as they are the foundation for your teeth. We will check them for any signs of gingivitis, gum disease and bone disease.

D. Checking your teeth comes next. We will be checking them for cavities and other problems. Finally, we will be sure to look specifically at any areas where you may have symptoms or concerns.

What is oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer is a significant public health concern in the United States, with approximately 54,000 new cases and 10,850 deaths reported in 2021. The incidence of oral cancer has been on the rise in recent years, particularly among younger individuals who do not have traditional risk factors such as smoking or heavy alcohol consumption. Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer. Early detection and regular dental check-ups are crucial for identifying oral cancer in its early stages when it is more treatable.

During an oral cancer screening, the dentist carefully examines the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues for any signs of abnormal growth or tissue changes that may indicate cancer. The dentist looks for any changes in color, texture, or shape of the tissues, as well as any visible lesions or sores. The dentist may also palpate the mouth and neck, feeling for any lumps, bumps, or abnormal growths.

An oral cancer screening is usually done as part of a routine dental exam. In addition, individuals who are heavy smokers or have  a family history of the disease are at a higher risk for oral cancer and should be screened more frequently. 

Is it time for your oral cancer screening? Call us at Gaithersburg Dental Care to schedule your appointment today.

What are the symptoms or signs of oral cancer?

Individuals who use tobacco products, consume alcohol heavily, or have a history of HPV infection are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral cancer in its early stages. Consult a dental professional for an oral exam as soon as possible if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
• Red or white patches on the tongue or gums
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
• A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
• Numbness or tingling in the mouth or tongue
• Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit properly

If you experience any of these symptoms or signs, it’s important to schedule a consultation for an oral cancer screening and dental exam.

What is a dental brush biopsy?

A dental brush biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that is sometimes used to diagnose oral lesions or suspicious growths in the mouth. It involves the use of a small, soft brush that is gently rubbed against the area of concern to collect a sample of cells.

The collected cells are then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous or precancerous. A dental brush biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in the dentist’s office and usually does not require any anesthesia.

Dental brush biopsies are often used to diagnose oral lesions that are too small to be seen with the naked eye or that do not appear to be cancerous based on a visual examination. They are also used to monitor the growth of lesions over time and to determine the effectiveness of treatment.

While dental brush biopsies can be a useful diagnostic tool, they are not always conclusive and may need to be followed up with a more invasive biopsy or other diagnostic tests. It is important to discuss any concerns about oral lesions with a dental or healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action.

Dental cleanings Gaithersburg

Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. The procedure involves the removal of dental plaque and tartar from the teeth, which are both detrimental to dental health. Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth due to bacteria build-up. If left untreated, it can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Tartar or calculus is a hardened form of dental plaque that forms when the plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing.

Regular dental cleanings help prevent the development of gum disease and tooth loss. In severe cases, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, which can be a severe blow to one’s confidence and quality of life.

Dental cleanings are performed by dental hygienists or dentists who use specialized instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar without harming the teeth. The procedure begins with an ultrasonic device that emits vibrations to knock loose larger pieces of tartar. The ultrasonic device also sprays a cooling mist of water, which washes away debris and keeps the area at a comfortable temperature.

After the larger pieces of tartar have been removed, hand tools called scalers and curettes are used to manually remove smaller deposits and smooth the tooth surfaces. These tools are curved and shaped to match the curves of the teeth, allowing for precise cleaning.

Once all the tartar and plaque have been removed, the teeth are polished using a slow speed hand piece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. A special gritty toothpaste-like material called prophylaxis paste is applied to the teeth to make them shiny and smooth. This process also removes any surface stains, resulting in a brighter smile.

During the dental cleaning, the dental hygienist will also use a piece of dental floss to clean between the teeth, removing any debris that may have been trapped.

Fluoride treatment may also be administered to help strengthen the tooth enamel. The fluoride may come in the form of gel, foam or varnish. This treatment can help prevent tooth decay by making the teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth.

Your dental health is important to us at Gaithersburg Dental Care. Call us to schedule your appointment today.

What periodontal therapy or deep dental cleaning?

Periodontal therapy, also known as a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have advanced periodontitis or those who have not responded well to routine dental cleanings.

During a deep cleaning, your dental hygienist or dentist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This process is usually performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

The first step of the procedure is scaling, where the hygienist will use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots. Next, they will use hand instruments called curettes to carefully clean any remaining debris from the tooth surfaces and roots.

The second step is root planing, where the root surfaces of the teeth are smoothed to remove any rough spots or bacterial deposits. This helps to prevent further buildup of bacteria and plaque, and promotes healthy gum tissue growth.

Periodontal therapy is an effective way to treat gum disease and prevent tooth loss. Our dentist or hygienist may recommend additional follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure the success of the treatment.

If you are experiencing signs of advanced periodontitis, schedule a consultation today at our Gaithersburg dental office to determine the right course of treatment.

What is prophylaxis paste?

The paste that a dental hygienist uses to clean teeth during a dental cleaning is called prophylaxis paste. It is a special type of gritty toothpaste-like material that is designed to clean and polish the teeth.

Prophylaxis paste contains a fine abrasive material, such as silica, that helps to remove surface stains and plaque from the teeth. It also contains fluoride, which helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

During a dental cleaning, the dental hygienist will apply the prophylaxis paste to a small, soft rubber cup that is attached to a slow-speed handpiece. The rubber cup spins on the end of the handpiece and gently scrubs the paste onto the surface of the teeth.

The dental hygienist will use the prophylaxis paste to polish all surfaces of the teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. The polishing process helps to remove any remaining plaque and stains from the teeth, leaving them shiny and smooth.

After the teeth have been polished with the prophylaxis paste, the dental hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to the teeth. The fluoride treatment helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and protect against cavities.

What is preventative dentistry for children?

Preventative dentistry in children is the practice of taking proactive measures to prevent oral health problems before they occur. Your dentist will educate you and your child on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. They can also monitor your child’s dental development and recommend orthodontic treatment if necessary.

During regular dental check-ups, your dentist can provide preventive treatments such as the application of fluoride and sealants to help prevent tooth decay. They can also identify any potential dental issues early on and provide appropriate treatment before they become more serious.

At our dental office we can also provide advice on sports safety and the use of mouthguards to prevent dental injuries. They may also offer dietary recommendations to help your child maintain good oral health.

By emphasizing preventative dentistry for children, your dentist can help ensure that your child develops healthy oral habits, prevent future dental problems, and maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.

Practice preventative dentistry at home

Preventative dentistry is an essential aspect of oral healthcare, and it is especially important for children. It involves taking proactive measures to prevent oral diseases, such as tooth decay and gum disease. By teaching children good oral hygiene habits and providing them with the necessary tools, parents can help their children maintain good oral health throughout their lives. Here are some of the ways parents can practice preventative dentistry for their children:

Brushing, flossing, and oral habits:

• Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and teaching children to brush properly 
• Flossing once a day to remove plaque and food particles
• Encouraging children to rinse their mouth with water after meals
• Limiting sugary foods and drinks to prevent cavities
• Avoiding hard foods, such as popcorn and ice, that can crack or chip teeth.

Monitoring the child’s dental development

• Regular dental check-ups can help detect early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

Parent involvement and proper diet

• Encouraging children to eat a healthy and balanced diet can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease
• Providing children with healthy snacks, such as fruits and vegetables, instead of sugary snacks
• Teaching children good oral hygiene habits and supervising them until they can do it on their own.
• Leading by example and practicing good oral hygiene habits yourself

Sports safety:

• Mouthguards can help prevent dental injuries during sports activities

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that works by remineralizing areas of the tooth enamel that may have been weakened by acid produced by bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen teeth and making them more resistant to decay,

During a chairside fluoride treatment, the dentist will first thoroughly clean the teeth to remove any plaque or debris. The fluoride gel or varnish is then applied to the teeth using a brush, swab, or tray and left on the teeth for a few minutes to allow for absorption. Some dentists may use a special light to help activate the fluoride and improve its effectiveness.

After the treatment, the patient is advised not to eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into the teeth.

Chairside fluoride treatments are a quick and painless procedure that can provide significant benefits for maintaining good oral health.