Dental Examinations
Digital Panorex X-rays are part of every New Patient examination and provide one of the easiest and best means to screen female patients (taking medication for osteoporosis) for Biophosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw. According to recent published reports* the incidence of this condition is very low for women taking oral medications such as Fosamax*, Actonel* and Boniva*. It is still very important for us to be aware if you are taking one of these medications. We will send a copy of this X-ray to your physician at your request. *(Journal of the American Dental Association,Jan.2008; American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Vol.20, Issue 2 )
Comprehensive Dental Examinations
New Patients will be given a comprehensive examination on their first appointment with Dr. Stanley. This will consist of several areas of evaluation that include:
1. Examination of the teeth and existing restorations to check for decay, broken fillings, cracked or fractured teeth and missing or unerupted teeth. An intra oral camera may be used to show you pictures of your teeth or any problems discovered.
2. A Periodontal Examination provides a record of periodontal disease/health that is used to base any treatment recommendations.
3. Visual Oral Cancer Screening detects any noticeable oral abnormalities.
4. Digital and/or film based X-rays are needed for diagnosis. Specific problems and certain areas of decay are only visible with X-rays. Individual intra-oral X-rays are for cavity detection and Digital Panorex X-rays help evaluate any Maxillofacial changes such as bone loss, tumors,TMJ, and impacted or missing teeth.
Note: A follow-up consultation with Dr. Stanley and the written Summary of Diagnosis is provided for each new patient (no addtional fee is ever charged for this appointment). It is your time to ask me questions, determine what treatment needs to be done first, and discuss if referral to a dental specialist may be necessary. The fees for treatment and insurance coverage are also discussed (with Jennifer). There will be no surprises.
Emergency/Problem Focused Examination
Any new or existing patient with a specific dental problem will be examined by Dr. Stanley to determine the cause of the problem and treatment needed. Film or digital X-ray and the intra oral camera may be used.
Periodic Recall Examination
Existing patients will have their periodontal condition and any visible dental problems noted on their recall chart at every hygiene appointment. If a problem is noted, the patient will be seen by Dr. Stanley either that day or scheduled for an appointment. Routine screening X-rays are taken by the hygienist for cavity detection and evidence of bone loss every 1-2 years. Digital Panorex X-rays for complete Maxillofacial screening are recommended every 3-5 years.
