Dental Examination in Williston, VT

When it comes to your health, you should try to avoid dental issues by getting them diagnosed before they develop into larger conditions. These problems can be identified during an annual dental exam for yourself and your whole family. While the mouth is superficially examined in your bi-annual cleaning, an exam consists of a more thorough analysis. Dental examinations at Contemporary Dental Arts assess your general and oral health by looking for tooth decay, signs of oral cancer, and other diseases. Dentist Dr. Lauren Shanard will determine your need for procedures and look for problems with your bite and jaw. Digital images will also be used for a better view of the hidden problems in your teeth, gums, and jawbone. If you live near Williston, VT, make an appointment for an annual dental examination for yourself and your family at Contemporary Dental Arts.

Oral cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the mouth, including the gums, jawbone, lips, tongue, throat, and salivary glands. Each dental exam at Contemporary Dental Arts will include a screening for oral cancer to check for any symptoms including inflammation, sores, lesions, and lumps. Dr. Shanard will also feel your throat and jaw for abnormal growths. Should any areas of concern be discovered, a biopsy can be done or you may need care from a specialist.

Williston, VT residents of every age should get an annual dental exam. Some of the most common problems, such as periodontal disease (the top reason for tooth loss), don’t have signs you can see. If problems are noticed early, the better your chances will be for a successful treatment with less invasive options.

The ADA (American Dental Association) suggests that all children visit a dentist before they turn one. Dr. Shanard can talk about common issues including teething, baby bottle tooth decay, and the use of pacifiers. Our team at Contemporary Dental Arts can help you understand ways to clean and care for your baby's oral health so they develop good habits early in life. Dental examinations are also important for older children as their teeth, gums, and jaw develop.

Your appointment will begin with an initial assessment of your teeth, gums, tongue, roof of your mouth, inside your cheeks, throat, and other checkpoints. This includes checking for symptoms of oral cancer throughout your mouth. Dr. Shanard or a member of her team may take x-rays and check for abnormal gum tissue. Dr. Shanard will evaluate your neck, head, and jaw, including the bite and temporomandibular joints (TMJ). She will then discuss anything discovered and your treatment options. Dr. Shanard will go over any other problems you may have, medications you are taking, and if they might affect your dental health by causing tooth decay or dry mouth. Lastly, she will check any restorations you have, such as dentures or bridges, to assess the wear and fit.

The follow-up period will be based on the results of your exam. If Dr. Shanard doesn't find any issues, then you can follow a regimen of dental health with flossing and brushing every day, plus yearly dental examinations and twice yearly professional cleanings at Contemporary Dental Arts. If Dr. Shanard does find a concern that needs to be addressed, procedures can be reviewed and planned.

Since a dental exam is so important to your oral health, it's typically covered by insurance. We can work with your dental insurance company to determine your coverage and any personal expenses. If you don't have insurance, Contemporary Dental Arts takes several payments, including medical financing. Dr. Shanard and her team are happy to work with you to help you afford good dental health.

Having a healthy mouth means you can't go to the dentist only when something is wrong. Preventive care is vital and may save your teeth, plus help you save a lot of money in the future. We suggest seeing Dr. Shanard at Contemporary Dental Arts every year for a dental exam. This can help you to minimize issues by catching and treating them in the early stages. We do our best to make dental exams a pleasant experience for you and your family so staying healthy is easier. Contact our team in Williston, VT to schedule your appointment.