Your initial appointment will consist of an evaluation explaning your diagnosis and treatment options. Sometimes, surgery can be performed the same day as the evaluation. If you have a extensive medical health history, you will require a second appointment for treatment on another day.
Please assist us by bringing the following information to your initial visit:
- A refferal letter and x-ray from your reffering doctor if applicable
- A current list of medications you are taking
- If you have medical or dental insurance, please bring your cards/forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any insurance claims
IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the initial visit.
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to surgery- for example- diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heat valve and joints, rheumatic fever, etc. - or if you are taking any medications such as heart medications, aspirin, or blood thinners.
If your dentist has taken an x- ray within the year, you may request that they foward them to our office. If you do not have a current x- ray, they can be taken at our office.
Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.
Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
Abscesses or cyst
Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
Decay between the teeth
Poor tooth and root positions
Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays. Not only are digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, they are faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.
Even though digital x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, dentists still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation. These precautions include only taking those x-rays that are necessary, and using lead apron shields to protect the body.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.
A panoramic x-ray is recommended for all new patients. A pan is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.