When you make your dental appointment for your regular cleaning, we do much more than just clean your teeth. We provide a comprehensive dental exam. This is especially important if you are a first-time patient with our practice. We want to both establish a baseline for your dental health and establish a timeline record of your dental history. However, it’s just as important at every visit.
Dental & Medical History
For a first-time patient, we will begin with by taking a medical and dental history. We want to know if you have had, or still have, any medical issues, what medications you are taking, and any dental procedures you have undergone in your past. This is extremely important for your safe dental care. We’ll update this medical history by asking questions at each visit. You’ll also have your blood pressure and pulse taken each visit.
X-Rays & Photographs
We will also want to do a full series of X-rays and photographs on your first dental exam, and then periodically will take X-rays throughout your regular visits with us, especially if we need to investigate further a problem area. At Advanced Family Dentistry, we offer the latest low-dose equipment for 3D X-rays and scans for your safety and comfort.
Teeth Cleaning
One of our friendly and well-trained dental technicians will professionally clean and floss your teeth. This will remove stuck-on tartar and plaque buildup to prevent gum disease, and remove stains from foods and drinks. You might notice that your teeth look whiter and feel smoother after a cleaning!
Oral Exam
A thorough examination of your oral cavity will let your dentist see if there are any problems with your teeth, gums, tongue, bite, and overall mouth. We look for things like broken or chipped teeth, cavities, excessive wear, gum recession, and gum disease. If we discover anything out of the ordinary, we’ll fully explain our findings and potential treatments with you. If necessary, we will set your next appointment for reparation or restoration.
Routine Oral Cancer Screening
A quick routine oral cancer screening is included in your dental exam, where we look for anything unusual like mouth cancer, precancerous lesions, growths or tumors. Factors that can increase the risk of oral cancer include: tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, significant sun exposure (lip cancer), or a previous oral cancer diagnosis.
Q & A
Your dentist will ask you if you have any issues or questions about your dental health while you’re here for your dental exam. Take the time to air any concerns you might have, or ask us questions that might help you take better care of your—and your family’s—teeth at home.
Appointments and Insurance
After your visit, your dental office will schedule your next appointment or six-month cleaning and process payments and insurance paperwork on your behalf. We hope that all we have to do is say “See you next time!” That means you’ve been doing a great job brushing and flossing at home. Be sure to let us know if you are eligible for our senior, military or cash discounts!
Advanced Family Dentistry. Your Family Dentist in Reston, VA
As you can see, there is a lot that’s included in your regular dental exam, but it’s what we love to do. There is nothing more rewarding that to see your big, healthy smile each and every visit!
When you need a family dentist in Reston, VA, contact Advanced Family Dentistry.
Dr. Sonny Kim is a Diplomat of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), the highest education level for general dentists in this field.
Advanced Family Dentistry
Dr. Sonny Kim, DMD
11876 Sunrise Valley Dr, Suite 101
Reston, VA 20191
Phone: 703.390.9191
