Regular Check Ups
Checking your teeth for tooth decay is just one part of a thorough dental examination.
During your check up appointment, Dr. Smitha Pillai will likely evaluate the health of your gums, perform a head and neck examination (to look for anything out of the ordinary) and examine your mouth for any indications of oral cancer, diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Don’t be surprised if Dr. Smitha Pillai also examines your face, bite, saliva and movement of your lower jaw joints (TMJs). Dr. Smitha Pillai or Ms. Ariana Kicka (Hygienist) will then clean your teeth and stress the importance of you maintaining good oral hygiene at home between visits.
We will also pay special attention to plaque and tartar. This is because plaque and tartar can build up in a very short time if good oral hygiene is not practiced between visits. Food, beverages and tobacco can stain teeth as well. If not removed, soft plaque can harden on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue. If not treated, plaque can lead to gum disease.
During your regularly scheduled dental appointments, Dr. Smitha Pillai will likely look at your gums, mouth, tongue and throat. There are several routine parts to a dental examination.
Once your examination and cleaning have been performed, they’ll tell you about the health of your teeth and gums and then make any additional recommendations.
It’s important that you visit us every six months and that we give you routine examination and cleaning. Remember, by seeing your dentist on a regular basis and following daily good oral hygiene practices at home, you are more likely to keep your teeth and gums healthy.