Why does Dr. Ortega want to schedule another appointment with you so soon - even if today's oral examination was perfect? Regular dental visits are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. For maximum benefit, a good home care regimen must be supplemented with an examination at least every six months. Depending on the status of your oral health, Dr. Ortega may recommend more frequent visits.

Checking your teeth for decay is only a small part of a thorough oral exam. During each visit, Dr. Ortega will also: probe your gums (gingiva) for inflammation, tooth mobility and pockets; examine your mouth for indications of possible cancer, diabetes and vitamin deficiencies; and note any irregularities in your facial structure, bite, saliva and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Dr. Ortega will clean your teeth and encourage you to maintain good oral hygiene.

Be sure to follow the special home care instructions provided by Dr. Ortega.

The Regular Dental Visit
At every regularly-scheduled dental appointment, Dr. Ortega examines your teeth, gums, mouth and throat. A regular dental visit may include the following:

HEAD & NECK EXAMINATION
The Cancer Exam
Facial Structure Exam
Palpation of Chewing Muscles
Palpation of Lymph Nodes
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

CLINICAL DENTAL EXAMINATION
Periodontal Exam- gingiva, periodontal pockets
Mobility of Teeth
Mucous Membranes
Saliva
Occlusion (Bite)
Decay of Teeth
Broken Fillings
Erosion
Removable Appliances
Contact Between Teeth

DENTAL CLEANING (PROPHYLAXIS)
Assessment of Mouth Cleanliness
Scaling
Polishing
Flossing
Oral Hygiene Instructions

After completing the clinical dental exam, Dr. Ortega might outline a detailed treatment plan, if necessary, and indicate when you need to return for a follow-up visit. Regular preventive maintenance of this type, along with a thorough home care regimen, helps assure your good oral health.