Preventive Care at Highland Smiles
Even with all the modern dental technology we have available today, nothing is as important as preventive care for making sure your teeth and mouth stay healthy.
One of the best ways to make sure that you and your loved ones maintain good oral health is to come in twice each year for checkups and cleanings. Visiting your dentist regularly will help to ensure problems are discovered early when they are still easy to treat. Maintain good oral health with regular visits to Highland Smiles.
Cleanings and Exams
Regular professional cleanings and exams can prevent tooth and gum disease as well as alert you to emerging conditions before they are advanced problems.
A typical cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth along with a thorough flossing and polishing. The special polish used at the dental office helps remove stains from teeth. A professional cleaning will leave your teeth feeling smooth and fresh and will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
During the exam, we look for signs of oral cancer, gum disease, early tooth decay, fractures, and other potential problems. We also check your x-rays for evidence of tumors or other issues that are not readily apparent. Highland Smiles patients can also benefit from a technology called the Velscope. This special device is the most powerful tool available for assisting in the discovery of oral abnormalities.
Dr. Jennifer Rohleder checks all cleanings and performs all exams personally. She will also share with you the latest tips and techniques for better brushing and flossing, as well as maintaining good overall oral health. You will learn about how best to care for your teeth as well as create optimum conditions to ward off gum and tooth decay.
Digital X-Rays (Radiographs)
X-rays help illuminate any tooth, gum, and mouth problems that cannot be discerned with the naked eye. Cysts, tumors, bone loss, problems below the gum line, and decay in the teeth are all issues that might require x-ray images for proper diagnosis.
Digital x-rays are more comfortable than old school films and create only a fraction of the radiation of traditional film x-rays. With digital x-rays, there is no more biting on uncomfortable film. Instead, a sensor is placed next to your teeth to capture the x-ray image. In the same way a digital camera displays an immediate picture, digital x-rays allow the dentist or technician to upload the images of your mouth to a large screen directly in front of you. This way, you and your doctor can discuss—and view—what is happening in your mouth.
Periodontal Treatment
Gum disease involves the build-up of germ-laden tartar and calculus on the teeth to the point that the bacteria erode gum tissue, creating deep pockets. If these pockets are not cleaned out, the bacteria will work its way into the area and destroy the foundation holding your teeth in place.
For mild cases of periodontal disease, we complete a careful and meticulous cleaning of the gum pockets by removing the plaque, calculus, and bacteria causing the problem. We also work with you to create a home care program and an ongoing periodontal treatment schedule so your disease does not progress.
Call Highland Smiles to Make an Appointment
Stay on top of your and your family’s oral health by visiting Highland Smiles twice each year for an examination and cleaning. Call us today!
The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that your child's teeth be brushed twice each day using a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure the back molars are brushed as this is the place where cavities often first develop. Help your child floss once each day. Floss sticks or picks might be easier than regular string dental floss.
Generally, most people should visit their dentist every six months for an examination and cleaning. It is also recommended that patients have x-rays done at least once a year. For those who might be prone to periodontal problems, however, checkups and cleanings might be recommended more frequently, such as every three or four months. 
