If you are a new patient at our office you will need a comprehensive exam that may require one and a half to two hours.  This includes:

Medical History Review:  Knowing the status of any current medical condition or new medications gives us insight of overall and dental health

Full Set of X-rays:  Full set of x-rays can be from twelve to eighteen intra oral films or one panoramic x-ray and two to four intraoral films. This gives us an idea about tooth and root positions, bone levels, cavities, status of existing restorations or any pathology in jaw bones.

Examination of Extra Oral and Intraoral Tissues:
The dentist will check your face, neck, lips, tongue, cheeks, throat and gums for any sign of cancer or other conditions. The dentist also evaluates your jaw joints for any arthritic changes. We also look at the gums and the bone around your teeth for any sign of gum disease. Every surface of the teeth is checked for decay or any abnormal wear pattern. Existing restorations are checked for any sign of cracks or decay around them. We take clinical pictures with an intraoral camera to show you what we see in your mouth. Also if the patients like, they can view x-rays on the screen. If any treatment is required, it is planned and explained.

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 At Jericho we stress on prevention. Early detection and intervention can prevent problems from   becoming worse. For better oral health regular checkups and cleanings are very important. We will customize a hygiene schedule for you. Some patients may require more frequent cleanings than every six or nine months.

Brushing: There are many different types of toothbrushes available.  We will demonstrate the correct brushing technique and advise the right type of tooth brush. We do review this on a regular basis.

Flossing:  Flossing is an important part of regular oral hygiene care because it removes plaque from between the teeth and at the gum line where periodontal disease often begins. We do show you the right flossing technique and type of floss you may be able to choose. Based on individual needs you may require a different kind of aid.

Fluoride:  Fluoride adds strength to your tooth enamel and increases resistance to harmful decay. If you already have some decay, fluoride can help repair the damaged tooth, often slowing or stopping the decaying process. We do recommend fluoride every 6 months.

Desensitization: A Lot of people suffer from tooth sensitivity because of tooth wear or root exposures. We can advise patients to use a desensitizing paste that can be used either by itself or in custom made trays.

Night Guards: Most of the population either grind or clench their teeth at night. This subconscious habit can cause a number of symptoms like wear on top of your teeth, gum recession, hot and cold sensitivity, frequent morning headaches and jaw muscle soreness. We can advise a night guard to prevent damage caused from this habit. It is like a sports guard (not as bulky) but custom made to fit your teeth and worn on either top or bottom teeth.