Dental Cleaning

Dr. Stummer does an exam on his patients at least yearly, but usually every 6 months. During the exam, he will examine each tooth for decay and need for restoration. He will also evaluate the need to replace or adjust any previously done dental work, such as fillings or bridges. He will check for gum and bone disease, such as periodontitis, as well as check for signs of oral cancer. Dr. Stummer will look at how well your teeth fit together and assess jaw and occlusal problems. Be sure to mention any pain in your mouth, chewing issues or headaches to Dr. Stummer or his hygienist. X-rays are taken at prescribed intervals to check for decay in areas not easily seen or probed. Bitewing x-rays are taken to see the crowns of the upper and lower teeth. Periapical x-rays are taken to see one particular tooth in full, crown and root, including surrounding bone. This is often done to assess concerns Dr. Stummer or the patient may have about a tooth or teeth in particular and are usually done in an emergency situation to quickly find the source of the problem.. A panoramic x-ray is done to see the whole mouth and is especially good for seeing wisdom teeth. The radiation exposure due to dental x-rays is low, but if you have any concerns, be sure to discuss them with Dr. Stummer or his staff.

Dental cleaning is done during each routine visit to Dr. Stummer’s office by a Registered Dental Hygienist. Tooth cleaning is often called prophylasis, or the prevention of disease. Cleaning includes removal of tartar, which is hardened plaque that has built up on teeth. This involves scaling of teeth with hand instruments. Then the teeth are polished. This is done to smooth the teeth and makes it more difficult for plaque to accumulate on the teeth. This is done with a rubber cup filled with an abrasive paste. If there is excessive tartar build-up, a debridement may be necessary. This is performed with ultrasonic instruments which fracture the calculus (tartar) and make it easier to remove. Removal of plaque and tartar significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.