The first consultation involves an examination of your teeth and advice on how to improve your smile and oral health. Our dentists will also listen to your concerns and goals. Our expert team believes clear, open communication is key to a successful outcome.
We require important information including your medical history and expectations on your visit. Your dentist will explain his or her findings to you after the examination.
At the end of the appointment, you will know:
Diagnostic x-rays may be needed to establish tooth and gum health. Recent x-rays from another practice can also be useful.
You might wish to make an appointment with one of our hygienists who will not only clean and polish your teeth, but work alongside the dentist to tailor a plan to prevent future dental issues.
Dental radiographs, commonly referred to as x-rays, are pictures of the teeth, bones and surrounding soft tissues which are used to identify problems associated with the teeth, mouth and jaw including cavities, cancerous or benign masses and hidden dental structures (such as wisdom teeth) and bone. Dental x-rays may also be taken to follow up dental treatments.
An orthopantomogram, or OPG, is a panoramic scanning x-ray of the upper and lower jaw. It shows a two-dimensional view of a half circle from ear to ear.
Dentists use OPGs to investigate:
The most common purpose is to determine the status of wisdom teeth.
A lateral cephalometric radiograph, or Lat Ceph, is an x-ray of the side of the face involving precise positioning so that measurements can be made to determine the current and future relationship between the mandible (jaw) and maxilla (cheek bone) which affects the natural bite. This helps your dentist to plan any necessary orthodontic treatment.
