Exams, X-Rays & Cleanings

Re-care visits are important because they allow us to identify and address the early signs of periodontal (gum) disease. Left untreated, gum disease can ultimately lead to the loss of teeth and other general health issues. The purpose of a professional cleaning is to remove the bacteria from hard to reach places and keep your gums healthy!

Helping your child commit to routine recare allows for the early detection of many costly dental problems. If cavities go undetected for extended periods of time the treatment options may be limited to root canals, crowns, and possibly the removal of tooth. This is also why it is important to update your x-rays at every recare visit. At Pediatric Dentistry, you can expect Dr. Oriola to only recommend necessary radiographs. A necessary radiograph is one that is used to diagnose the extent of a dental problem that we already know exists, such as a broken tooth, a cavity, or an abscess. We also must use radiographs as part of an initial or periodic oral examination. In these examinations, radiographs are used to determine whether there are problems in a beginning stage that cannot be seen just by looking at the tooth or area.

An X-ray is used because we can only see a portion of your child’s oral condition during an oral exam without radiographs. Radiographs allow your doctor to view in-between your teeth and see all the issues. This information allows your dentist to make a full diagnosis resulting in the identification of problems before they become more complex and costly. Schedule an appointment today and we will keep that smile smiling!