The Way a Dentist Philadelphia Examines Your Mouth

In a dentist evaluation, the dentist Philadelphia examines the mouth mucosa or soft tissues for any irregularities or pathology including oral cancer, the teeth for tooth decay or defects, the gum tissues for periodontal disease, the neck for swollen lymph nodes, the quantity of plaque, tartar, and debris on teeth, and also the need to replace any missing enamel or dental prostheses.

The dental evaluation begins with a complete dental hygiene and medical history, including medications the patient currently is taking. The skin of the face and neck is examined for any abnormalities, especially pigment changes. The lymph nodes in front and behind the ears, under the floor of the mouth and chin, and the midline of the neck, sides, and back of the neck are palpated to find out if any swelling or inflammation is present. Inside of the mouth, the lip area, cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth are examined and palpated. During this process, the tip of the tongue is positioned on the roof of the mouth just behind the upper teeth for examination of the front floor of the mouth and sides of the tongue.

The back floor of the mouth, the area behind the lower wisdom teeth, and the back sides of the tongue are inspected by grasping the tip of the tongue with a tiny gauze sponge and pulling the tongue forward and toward the other side of the mouth. To examine the back of the throat, soft palate, and tonsil area, the tongue is depressed with a dental mirror or tongue blade and then a deep breath is taken by the patient. To detect swelling on the floor of the mouth, the area within the mouth is felt with the finger of one hand while a finger of the other hand senses below the chin. Salivary gland enlargement, saliva flow, or xerostomia are determined by milking the major salivary glands to evaluate the amount and consistency of saliva.

To find out if a mouth carries risks, microbiological testing of saliva can measure the level of carries-producing organisms. Periodontal susceptibility tests, which test for the DNA of gum disease-producing bacteria, can be carried out to evaluate an individual’s risk for gum disease. If removable dentures can be found, they are examined for bite, retention, stability, and overall fit. Dental impressions or models also may be taken to study the mouth and tooth structures to initiate fabrication of prostheses. Photographs may be exposed for a variety of reasons, including before and after treatment comparisons. The level of dental hygiene and home care practices are evaluated and analyzed. Recommendations for home care devices and products may be made. Instruction and strategies to maintaining a good oral hygiene routine can also take place.

Today’s dentist Philadelphia has many analytic tools available to pinpoint dental and oral illnesses. The basic tools are the dental instruments, lights, and radiographs. Depending upon the dentist Philadelphia and the individual’s dental needs, additional diagnostic tests are available. Testing for important proteins and buffering capacity can evaluate the protective ability of saliva. Once basic detail about oral health status is collected, the dentist Philadelphia will be better able to talk over dental treatment possibilities, like dental implants Philadelphia, that are available.

One of the main issues when looking for a tooth doctor is how pleasant and trusted the dental professional is especially when you need to have dental implants Philadelphia. Choosing the finest dentist Philadelphia will make a significant difference in obtaining good dental care.

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