As a new patient at Kona Ohana Dental, your initial exam and radiographs (X-rays) are crucial for establishing your dental health baseline. Here’s what you can typically expect during your new patient exam:
- Welcome and Registration: You’ll be greeted warmly by the front desk staff and asked to fill out new patient forms, which include medical history and dental background.
- Consultation: You may have a consultation with a dental assistant or hygienist to discuss any immediate concerns, medical history updates, and your oral health goals.
- X-rays: The dentist will likely recommend taking X-rays to get a comprehensive view of your teeth, gums, and jaw structure. This helps in detecting cavities, evaluating the bone structure, and identifying any underlying issues that may not be visible during the visual exam.
- Comprehensive Exam: The dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This includes checking for signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and any other oral health issues.
- Periodontal Assessment: Your gum health will be evaluated to determine if you have signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis).
- Occlusal Analysis: The dentist will assess how your teeth fit together (your bite) to ensure proper alignment and function.
- Oral Cancer Screening: A detailed examination of your oral tissues, including the tongue, cheeks, throat, and lymph nodes, will be conducted to check for any signs of oral cancer or abnormalities.
- Discussion and Treatment Planning: Based on the findings from the exam and X-rays, the dentist will discuss their observations with you. They will explain any treatment recommendations, such as fillings, crowns, cleanings, or other procedures, as well as a personalized plan for ongoing dental care.
- Cleaning (if time permits): Depending on the findings and time available, a dental hygienist may perform a cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth.
- Future Appointments: You will be advised on when to schedule your next routine check-up or any follow-up appointments for treatment.
Kona Ohana Dental prioritizes thoroughness and patient education to ensure you have a clear understanding of your oral health and the recommended treatments. This comprehensive approach helps in establishing a strong foundation for your ongoing dental care with their practice.
