HYGIENE CLEANINGS AND EXAMS IN DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER

DENTAL EXAMS NEAR YOU

Your initial visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination evaluating your overall dental health. At regular check-ups, your dentist and hygienist will do the following:

Examination of X-Rays – Essential for detecting decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss and checking the position of teeth and roots.
Oral Cancer Screening – checking the face, neck, and oral tissue for unusual lumps or patches. A VELscope screening can also be done.
Examination of Tooth Decay – checking all teeth for any erosion of tooth structure.
Examination of Existing Dental Work – Check the status of all restorations, such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and veneers.

DENTAL HYGIENE CLEANINGS NEAR YOU

Hygiene cleanings are performed by our Registered Dental Hygienists and may include the following:

Removal of plaque – Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that covers the teeth. This bacteria releases acids that cause the tooth enamel to break down. Without regular removal by brushing and flossing, the plaque buildup can lead to calculus and then to periodontal disease.
Removal of calculus (tartar) – Calculus is a form of hardened dental plaque left on the tooth for too long and firmly attached to the surface. Calculus can only be removed with special dental instruments.
Polishing – Remove stains and plaque that have built up on the teeth.
Fluoride – A short fluoride rinse that will strengthen the tooth enamel and aid in preventing tooth decay.
Oral Hygiene Instruction and Education – Personalized information to help develop better oral hygiene skills and prevent cavities and/or periodontal disease. This may involve using an intra-oral camera to view your teeth and gums.
Periodontal Screening – A small dental probe is used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the teeth and gums. A healthy sulcus measures 3 mm or less and does not bleed. If the sulcus is greater than this, the hygienist may diagnose gingivitis or periodontitis.