Even if you take excellent care of your teeth and gums at home, it is still imperative to see a dentist regularly. At Evolve Dental Kenmore dentist we can check for problems that you may not see or feel.

The standard recommendation is to visit twice a year for dentist check-ups and at least a minimum of twice a year for hygiene cleanings. Hygiene visits are recommended more regularly depending on your age, health, gum condition and lifestyle habits. Patients with implants, crowns and gum disease, a predisposition for plaque build-up or cavities, or a weakened immune system might need to visit the dentist more frequently for optimal care.

To allow your dentist to check for problems that you might not see or feel including early signs of decay, gum disease, cracks in teeth or infections.
Generally, the earlier a problem is found, the more manageable it is.

As a new patient to Evolve Dentist Kenmore we want to take the time to get to know you and your mouth. We gather information via simple questionnaire forms and by asking you questions to better understand your medical history, dental history, your reasons for attending as well as getting know your dental health and smile goals.

During the examination we check your mouth health for any abnormalities, signs of general health issues and screen for oral cancer using a specialised viewing tool called an Oral ID.

As we are holistic in our approach we check the health and function of your jaw joint and bite, check for signs of clenching and grinding and/or airway and breathing issues.

Your gum health is thoroughly assessed for signs of gum disease, tartar and plaque build up, inflammation and infection.

Then last but not least we assess and examine the condition of your teeth for signs of dental decay, cracks, breaks, wear, infection and failed or worn fillings/restorations.

To help us properly diagnose and plan any treatment you require we take a series of in mouth photographs and diagnostic x-rays. Once we have gathered all the relevant information we run through this with you showing you what we can see and explain what treatment options are available to you.

Cleaning: Although home-based tooth brushing and flossing help remove plaque, only a professional cleaning – provided by the dentist or dental hygienist – can thoroughly clean your teeth and remove the hardened plaque (called calculus or tartar) that builds up on teeth. The hygienists use a series of specialised instruments to clean your teeth and remove bacterial build up form under the gumline.

Polishing: After your teeth have been cleaned, they are polished to remove plaque and stains on the tooth surface. The polish contains a mildly abrasive substance and remineralising products (not fluoride), and is applied using a small rotating rubber cup attached to the dental hand piece.

Prevention: The hygienist might offer additional instructions for you to follow at home, based on the results of your exam. Don’t hesitate to ask us for instructions about brushing or flossing, or general care questions about your teeth and gums.

Digital X-Rays: At Evolve we use digital x-rays thereby exposing our patients to much less radiation than traditional x-rays. The dentist will consider your clinical examination, dental history, and risk for developing cavities in determining the frequency for x-rays.

Treatment recommendations: If any oral health problems are identified during your examination, the dentist will make recommendations for the best next steps. These might include referral to another oral health care specialist, additional diagnostic tests, or advice to return for restoration work or additional oral health care.

• A toothache
• A swollen face
• A broken or loose tooth
• A lost filling or crown (cap)
• Bleeding after having a tooth removed

• Brush your teeth twice a day for 3 minutes each time
• Floss your teeth every day
• Use a mouthwash each day
• Wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
• Eat a healthy diet and avoid high-sugar snacks and junk food
• Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning and examination every 6 months