New Patient Dental Exam

Patients who have their first visit with Dr. Visanescu typically receive a Comprehensive Oral Examination. This exam includes necessary dental x-rays. Dr. Visanescu will review the x-rays to check on the structure of the teeth and jaw, review the placement of teeth including wisdom teeth, check any existing dental restorations, and look for signs of decay or other problems. Dr. Visanescu will also visually inspect inside and around your mouth and jaw, and may use a tool called an explorer to check the teeth and gums, and may also feel the outside of your jaw and neck to check for swelling, tenderness, or for motion or any clicking in the jaw.

Dr. Visanescu will ask you questions about your dental health history, your dental hygiene routine at home, as well as ask you if you have any pain, issues, questions or things you would like to change about your smile. This is a great time to have a dialogue with her about your current health as well as your goals.

Regular Dental Exams

Returning patients will usually receive a routine dental exam at their regular visits. Regular dental exams may include routine x-rays that are recommended by the doctor. If you come to the office with any concerns or pain, Dr. Visanescu will likely request x-rays of that particular area as well. Dr. Visanescu will check your mouth, teeth, gums and jaw area, and compare to your previous exam and x-rays to see if there are any changes and to check for any issues or problems. Regular check-up visits are the best time to chat with Dr. Visanescu about questions, concerns and goals you may have about your smile or overall oral health.

What are Regular Dental Cleanings?

Regular dental cleanings usually go hand in hand with a comprehensive oral exam or a regular (recall) evaluation. Once the exam has been completed, unless Dr. Visanescu has diagnosed gum disease a regular cleaning, or prophylaxis, will be performed.  For individuals with gum disease, Dr. Visanescu will recommend a deep cleaning to treat the issue and allow your mouth to heal.

During the first part of your regular cleaning, we may use a hand scaler or an ultrasonic scaler to remove debris, calculus, and plaque from between your teeth and around your gum line. When this portion of the cleaning is done, we will follow up with a polishing using a special paste, and will polish each tooth one by one. Afterwards, we will floss your teeth using dental floss, and may make recommendations or suggestions about proper flossing technique. Our staff members may follow up with you about any treatment the doctor recommended, and make any necessary follow up appointments.