Comprehensive Exam

 During your initial visit, a comprehensive evaluation will be completed. We will review your medical and dental history and then address your dental concerns and goals.  We will take any necessary radiographs, photographs, or diagnostic aids to thoroughly evaluate your oral health. 

Dr. Willden will check your teeth for cavities, evaluate the integrity of existing dental work, examine your gums, check your bite, and perform an oral cancer screening. In most cases, we are able to clean your teeth the same day.  In some cases, more extensive gum therapy is indicated.  We will review your treatment needs and options and then present you with a treatment plan that includes a phased treatment schedule with your cost estimate. 

Digital Dental  X-rays

• Panoramic
• Bitewings
• Periapical

Dental radiographs are a diagnostic tool to aid your dentist in detecting conditions and disease not visible during the clinical exam. Radiographs allow us to “see” between your teeth and below your gums.  We can identify cavities, evaluate gum health, and check for pathology.  As a benefit to you, the digital radiograph provides nearly 80% less radiation than with standard x-rays. 

How often we take radiographs depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease. Your dentist will review your records and your mouth to determine your need. 

Intra-oral camera
The intra oral camera is a diagnostic tool that gives us the ability to
document your dental findings and plan the best care for you.
With up-close, detailed pictures of your teeth, we can also show
you what we see and help you understand your treatment needs.

Advanced or untreated gum disease is called “Periodontitis.” Chronic periodontitis affects nearly half of adults over 30 in the United States.  As tartar accumulates below the gumline, it harbors bacteria and toxins that attack the tissue and bone around teeth.  Symptoms of active periodontitis include bleeding gums, bad breath, teeth that look longer and discolored due to root exposure, and swollen or red gums.  Because the disease advances silently and often without pain, routine care is key.  If unchecked, the result could be tooth loss. 

Scaling and Root planning or a “deep cleaning” is an advanced cleaning procedure that involves removing tartar, bacteria, and toxic deposits from the root of a tooth, all the way down to where the gum and bone meet. We may also employ soft tissue laser therapy and/or local antimicrobial therapy to reduce harmful bacteria levels between your teeth and gums.  In some cases of aggressive periodontitis or advanced tissue loss, surgical periodontal therapy may be needed. 

Fluoride is often called nature’s cavity fighter and for good reason.
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps prevent cavities in children and adults by making the outer surface of your teeth (enamel) more resistant to the acid attacks that cause tooth decay. If you are high risk for getting cavities, your dentist can apply fluoride varnish directly to your teeth during your dental visit. Prescription- strength fluoride toothpaste may also be recommended.

Night Guards / Occlusal Guards / Splints

A night guard/occlusal guard/splint fits over your teeth in order to protect them from the damages common with nightly clenching and grinding or an unbalanced bite. They are similar to mouth guards worn during sports but are made of a thinner, smoother, firmer plastic. Occlusal guards are customized to each patient in order to fit them securely and comfortably.  This allows for a better night’s sleep, while also offering the most protection against tooth fracture and chipping. With a more balanced bite and relaxed jaw muscles, most patients will experience less jaw pain and headaches.