Dental Exam Process and Procedure

Dr. Von Joseph Holbrook first examines your mouth visually, using dental equipment such as mouth mirrors, dental picks, and powerful dental lighting equipment. Dr. Holbrook and his team will consider various dental issues, such as:

• Medical history: The dentist will assess how any medical conditions or illnesses may affect your dental health.
• Examination of tooth decay: Your mouth will be checked for cracked teeth or teeth with cavities.
• Oral cancer screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums will be checked for any signs of oral cancer.
• Gum disease evaluation: Your gums and bone around the teeth will be checked for any evidence of periodontal disease.
• Examination of existing restorations: Current fillings, crowns, and other restorations are made sure to be in good order. 

At Paso Robles Dental Care, your dentist will take diagnostic X-rays to reveal hidden issues, especially beneath the gums. Bitewing X-rays are typically taken every 12 months to monitor your dental health, while a panoramic X-ray, which revolves around your head, is usually taken every 3-5 years to provide a broader view of your teeth and jaw.

Once you’re comfortably settled in the dental chair, the team may take detailed images of your teeth before capturing X-rays. This helps create a comparison image that allows the dentist to track any changes that the X-rays may reveal over time. The process is quick and efficient, ensuring that we have the most accurate information to care for your oral health.

To take the X-rays, we will position a small sensor behind your teeth and gently press it into place while you stay still. After this, the X-ray process is complete. It’s essential to remain still during the process to ensure we capture sharp, accurate images. Dr. Holbrook will go over any findings immediately or discuss them during your next appointment if needed.

Treatments We Commonly Offer After Dental Exams and X-Rays

After any dental exams and X-rays, our team can offer a variety of treatments depending on the X-ray results. Common treatments provided after our dental exams and X-rays include:

• Dental Cleaning: Regular dental cleanings are crucial to preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Professional cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.
• Fillings: Brushing and flossing regularly is essential for healthy teeth, but even the best oral hygiene habits won’t keep your teeth 100% cavity-free. If you experience tooth decay, a dental filling can help restore the tooth and keep it strong for years to come. Dental fillings are a great way to get back on track to having a healthy smile, and we highly recommend them if you need one.
• Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride treatments help strengthen and remineralize tooth enamel. These treatments are especially beneficial for children, pregnant women, and those with poor oral hygiene.
• Dental Sealants: Dental sealants protect your teeth from decay. We use a thin plastic coating to cover and protect the chewing surfaces of your molars, making it easier to brush away plaque and bacteria.

Dental Exams and X-Rays

With Paso Robles Dental Care, you can feel confident knowing that you’re getting top-quality care from some of the most qualified professionals in the business. Plus, our procedures are backed by comprehensive customer satisfaction guarantees so that you know exactly what kind of service to expect before committing!

Call Paso Robles Dental to schedule your dental exam and x-ray in Paso Robles, CA.