Why do I need an oral exam?

It is a very important part of your recare appointments. The Doctor reviews your overall health, notes any changes and once a year we will also check your blood pressure. The Doctor checks for signs of decay, restorations that may start breaking down, fractured teeth and other conditions that may require treatment. We will then perform an oral cancer screening, checking for lumps, masses, red and white patches or recurring mouth sores. The condition of your gums is evaluated and all your questions answered.

The extent of the exam you receive depends on many factors but it is essential you're your oral health is evaluated on a regular basis.

Why do I need X-rays?

Many conditions remain undiagnosed until they reach a later, more advanced and often painful stage. We try to prevent this and diagnose early by taking radiographs, which help us detect:

- decay hidden between your teeth
- infections (abscess)
- the extent of periodontal disease
- unerupted or impacted teeth

In our office we take radiographs as needed by each individual patient. We protect you by using a fast speed film and a lead apron to reduce exposure.

Please, remember - dental X-rays pose a much smaller risk to your health than undetected and untreated dental problems.

Why do I need a crown?

A crown is a restoration that covers a tooth and restores it to its proper shape and function. We recommend crowns to treat fractured teeth or teeth with large breaking down restorations that weaken your tooth even more each time you bite down. A crown will also restore and protect cracked teeth when there isn't enough tooth structure remaining to support large fillings.

Why do I need to replace my filling?

We recommend that you replace a filling when it shows signs of wear and breakage. With time existing fillings may start breaking down around the edges or pull away from a surrounding tooth. That leaves a small space between the tooth and the restoration, creating a way for the bacteria to enter and cause decay. Your fillings also need to be replaced if they are chipped or cracked or if you experience any discomfort.

When should a child have their first dental appointment?

We like to see children around the age of 3, when all their baby teeth have erupted. However, if any dental problems occur before then we will be happy to treat them earlier.

What happens during my child's hygiene appointment?

One of our hygienists will first talk to you, parents, to evaluate your child's overall health, note any changes and address your concerns. Then she will examine your child's teeth and use disclosing solution. It's a special dye that makes plaque turn purple, which makes it easier for your child to see where they need to brush and floss more. The Hygienist will then go over homecare routine with the patient. And then the fun part begins - their teeth are cleaned and polished and fluoride applied (with lots of flavors to choose from!). If X-rays are necessary we'll take them with your consent. The Doctor will then come in and perform a thorough examination of your child's mouth, review the X-rays and answer any questions you and your child might have. Fun prizes and a new toothbrush finish off the appointment.

Please, remember! On your child's first visit we may only give them a ride in the dental chair if they are not too comfortable!

What are sealants?

A sealant is a plastic-like material applied to chewing surfaces of back teeth. The groves and depressions in those teeth (pits and fissures) can be deep and narrow, and therefore very difficult to clean. A sealant will fill those groves, making it easier for toothbrush bristles to reach and preventing tooth decay from occurring there.

What about dental emergencies?

We make every effort to see you the day that you call and make you comfortable until a more permanent treatment is performed. After hours Dr. Pronczuk can be reached at the emergency phone number recorded on our answering machine. She will return your call as soon as possible.