Examination & Prevention
The Dental Health Examination (DHE) is the core service to delivering good dental care. There is a comprehensive list of thorough checks performed at every HDS examination.
Medical history |
including current medication |
Dental history |
relevant details about past dental care |
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details of any problems, concerns. |
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discussion of desire for any particular service such as cosmetic
treatments, or strategy for nervous patients. |
Examination |
of teeth, restorations, gum condition, bone levels & health, mouth head-and-neck tissue checks and cancer screening, jaw function and bite. |
Radiographs |
x-rays are taken for routine screening at New Patient DHE's and regularly (but not necessarily frequently) in future DHE visits. These are low-dose digital images. |
Photographs |
are often taken at DHE visits and at stages throughout and following treatment. |
Other investigations |
often impressions are taken for fabrication of models and trial restoration. This is usually at a subsequent visit. |
Treatment plan discussion |
All findings and proposals are fully discussed with the patient including any alternative options. All treatment proposals are based on sound clinical diagnosis and treatment is not commenced without the full informed consent of the patient. A printed estimate of the cost of treatment is produced, and any changes to the treatment plan required during treatment is explained. |
| Recall |
The appropriate recall interval is decided for your next DHE and our robust recall system is updated for your reminders. |
Prevention
Preventing problems in the mouth is the key to maintaining a healthy, comfortable beautiful smile for a lifetime. It is easy to avoid dental decay. Avoidance of frequent sugar intakes in the diet is the most important measure. Good control of diet and the use of effective fluoride toothpastes, gels and mouthwashes is hugely beneficial. Good oral hygiene routine at home to reduce plaque levels and introduce fluoride are essential.
Your dentist at HDS will advise on the measures needed to avoid dental disease or excessive tooth structure wear through dietary problems. Other treatments to improve the resistance of the teeth to disease - such as topical fluoride applications and fissure - sealing vulnerable sites are often recommended. Any individual identified as being at a higher risk of dental decay will be targeted for Preventative Care.
A high proportion of the UK population have a degree of gum disease which in many patients puts them at risk of loosing teeth. Prevention of gum disease by identifying individuals at risk is the most effective measure.
Patients who avoid gum disease avoid the discomfort and poor appearance of inflamed gum tissue and the embarrassment of bad breath as well as gaining confidence from a healthy mouth.
Our excellent hygienist service is fundamental to treating and preventing gum problems and for regular on-going maintenance. All our patients are advised as to the appropriate frequency of hygienist visits for their individual needs. The intervals are normally between 3 months and 1 year for maintenance following the completion of active treatment.
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