The dentist Mt. Pleasant, SC residents can count on to take care of their overall oral health is one who conducts an in-depth dental examination. Dr. Jeff Gardner is that dentist. It is important that your dentist knows as much as possible regarding your dental condition, history, and general health. A thorough dental examination on your first visit to Dr. Jeff Gardner will help identify existing dental problems and could be an opportunity to ask Dr. Gardner relevant questions.
Dental examination serves as the foundation of dental care. During examinations, Dr. Jeff Gardner gathers information regarding your dental health and systematically proceeds to make a correct diagnosis, plan, implementation, and evaluation. Here are the common areas evaluated during a dental examination:
Teeth and Gums
Your teeth and gums are visually inspected with the use of mouth mirrors, a periodontal probe and high intensity lights. Dr. Gardner checks every tooth for cavities, position, condition, and previous signs of treatment or restorations. Observations and findings are recorded in a tooth chart for future reference. The evaluations of gums aid in identifying the presence of periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis that involve the breakdown of gums and surrounding tissues of the mouth.
Medical History
In the field of dentistry, Dr. Jeff Gardner knows that it’s a must to assess for any pre-existing medical conditions or illnesses that may effect your dental health and treatment. This can be done by presenting your health records, answering questionnaires, and discussing health issues with Dr. Gardner. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease can make a huge change in routine treatments due to the necessity of special considerations. It is also important that you inform Dr. Gardner if you are taking any medications and supplements to avoid any adverse or allergic reactions.
Jaw Joints
Patients with bruxism or teeth grinding can be diagnosed through visual assessment of the tooth surface and mobility of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Teeth grinding is often associated with stress, poor bite, or jaw joint dysfunction. The TMJ is assessed for limited movement, pain or tenderness and popping, clicking or grating sounds. By doing so, Dr. Gardner can provide solutions to keep your jaw joints healthy.
Smile
You can be certain there is no dentist in Mt. Pleasant, SC who doesn’t value your smile! During a dental examination, Dr. Jeff Gardner will evaluate your smile line (lips in relation to the teeth), teeth inclination and how many teeth show when you smile and when you’re at rest. This evaluation is particularly done for cosmetic dental procedures. Proper smile analysis assists Dr. Gardner in making a comprehensive plan to make your smile bright and beautiful.
Dental examinations are very important to your overall oral health. Call Dr. Jeff Gardner in Mt. Pleasant, SC today to set up your appointment.