Nov
It is an unfortunate truth that most people only visit their dentist when there’s a problem. So often, many of these problems could have been avoided had they paid their dentist just two visits per year. Dental cleanings and exams allow dentists to uncover minor problems before they become bigger, more costly issues. At Laurel Canyon Dental, Darien Ephram DDS, Dr. Darien Ephram is a preventive dental care expert in Valley Village, California, who can help create and maintain a shiny, healthy, vibrant smile for years to come.
Prevention is one of the most powerful tools for maintaining a healthy smile. With dental exams, Dr. Ephram can detect issues way before they snowball into a severe oral health crisis. There’s nothing quite as bad as waking up one day with a throbbing tooth pain that could have been avoided. And more often than not, most folks go for days, weeks, or even months without treatment because they can’t find the time or money to fix the issue.
However, trying to wait out a bad tooth infection is a terrible strategy, as it can lead to other, much more serious health conditions such as an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other issues, as bacteria from the periodontitis infection spreads to other parts of your body causing inflammation.
Engaging in proactive dental care via routine dental exams can save time and a lot of money in the long run. Not to mention possibly your teeth and life as well!
During a dental exam, Dr. Ephram and his team will inspect your gums, teeth, tongue, and other oral cavity tissues. The doctor will also use high-tech tools such as digital X-rays to spot any signs of gum disease or tooth decay. A dental hygienist may also perform a deep cleaning to remove built-up plaque and tartar from your teeth in a procedure commonly called “oral prophylaxis.”
Deep cleanings are recommended every six months to ensure optimum oral health while preventing serious issues that can develop despite good daily at-home oral hygiene routines.
Dental X-rays provide an integral and important diagnostic tool when examining a patient’s mouth as not all dental issues are visible clinically(in the mouth).
It was once a common practice to get dental X-rays with every visit to the dentist. But today, recommendations vary based on an individual patient’s periodontal and restorative history. This can range anywhere from 12-36 months.
If a patient suffers from issues such as gum disease or has a history of oral health problems, it’s prudent to take X-rays more often, if indicated. And, thanks to technological advancements, dentists can now use digital X-rays, which are faster, safer, and provide a comprehensive picture of your oral health.
Start enjoying a brighter, healthier smile today by visiting Laurel Canyon Dental, Darien Ephram DDS. Call us at (818) 509-3055 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ephram.
You can also visit our office located at 12156 Riverside Drive, Valley Village, California 91607.