We provide dental exams and professional teeth cleaning for our patients from throughout the Philadelphia area. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Dear Dr. Dubin,
Days after my last appointment, I’m still feeling profound gratitude. That you elected to repair my second cavity without a separate procedure was an act of generosity I won’t forget and one that makes a considerable difference in my continuing struggle to survive while making art. I extend my sincere thanks to you and your unusually hospitable staff.
Respectfully,
- Ben
Regularly visiting a dentist for checkups is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and perhaps for saving your life. Although many people refer to these visits as “dental cleanings,” much more than teeth cleaning takes place during dental exams. At our Philadelphia practice, we utilize the latest technology and procedures, such as the ViziLite® Oral Cancer Screening, which detects precancerous cells in the mouth to insure that you stay healthy. We invite you to enjoy a relaxing dental experience that can benefit your overall health in addition to your teeth and gums.
During dental exams, patients’ teeth and gums are carefully inspected under the magnification of the intra-oral camera for the subtlest signs of damage or disease. Cavities, gum disease, and other problems are best detected early so they can be effectively treated before the damage becomes too extensive. Gums are checked by the hygienist for redness, swelling, bleeding, recession, and other abnormalities. The teeth are examined for signs of decay, as well as chips, cracks, loose fillings, and other damage. The depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums is also measured to ensure that none of these spaces has become too deep, which is a sign of gum disease. Any tartar that has built up on the teeth is removed from above and below the gum line and the teeth are polished to reduce surface stains and eliminate any remaining plaque. During some dental exams, digital X-ray images are taken and a fluoride treatment may also be administered.
Once a year, we recommend that all patients get the ViziLite® Oral Cancer Screening that can detect pre-cancerous cells when they are easily treatable. Oral cancer is the only cancer that has not seen a decrease in death rates, because the cancerous lesions are usually found too late. One American dies every hour from oral cancer. Make sure you’re not one of them by getting your ViziLite® screening every year.
Any pain or sensitivity that you experience in your teeth or gums should be mentioned during your dental exam. If a problem is detected, Dr. Barry Dubin will discuss treatment options and recommend a course of action. In most cases, however, proper teeth cleaning at home and regular dental exams at our Philadelphia office will keep dental problems at bay.
Brushing and flossing is the first line of defense against gum disease and tooth decay, and we cannot stress enough how important it is to practice good oral hygiene. But at-home care alone is not enough to prevent all dental health problems. Regular dental exams are vital to maintaining your dental and overall health and of course, everyone should be screened every year for oral cancer.
Food debris and bacteria that become trapped beneath the gum line cannot be removed through normal brushing and flossing. Over time, this will lead to gum disease, which has been shown to be connected to a number of general health problems. Gingivitis, for example, can complicate pregnancy, diabetes, and osteoporosis and possibly increase the risk of developing heart disease.
Do not rely on at-home teeth cleaning alone. Dental exams at our Philadelphia practice are comfortable, relaxing, and convenient to schedule - simply contact our office today.