What is an initial exam for new dental patients, and why is it necessary? If you live in Hickory, NC, or the surrounding area, Dr. Hanigofsky offers an extensive initial exam prior to routine cleanings, dental crowns, porcelain veneers, implant restoration, or other oral health procedures. Here is why this is great news for you!
Meeting Dr. Hanigofsky
Dr. Hanigofsky offers advanced technology and innovative techniques for comprehensive dentistry, from root canals and denture services to Reveal® Crystal Clear Aligned Therapy. But the main reason patients keep coming back and rating this dentist five stars on Google is his passion for patient comfort and stunning end results. Best of all, if you are new to the area or you are interested in finding out more about why patients often report Dr. Hanigofsky has removed any anxiety about spending time at the dentist’s office, you can claim your free dental consultation ahead of your initial exam. This is a time when you can ask any questions you may have about Dr. Hanigofsky, his services, or what procedures you would like to have performed.
Taking the First Step
When you are ready to set up your preventative, cosmetic, or restorative procedure, the first step is to complete your initial exam. This is a critical part of any new patient’s first appointment as it helps Dr. Hanigofsky understand your past medical history, present oral health state, and can bring to light concerns that may be in the beginning stages or have gone untreated. It is in the initial exam that the team discovers if there are any signs of gingivitis, cavities, pocket depth issues, or underlying health problems that may interfere with dental procedures. Also, as many diseases may be noticed by your dentist before symptoms appear in other areas of the body, this exam serves as a baseline map for your wellness care plan that may be shared with your other medical care professionals.
Discuss Medical History
No judgments here! This is your time to chat about key components of your medical history leading up to the current date. The collected data will be used solely for care-related purposes in an effort to maximize your dental health and allow Dr. Hanigofsky to perform procedures safely. For example, certain medications and illnesses can greatly impact how your dentist proceeds with your oral healthcare plan, such as asthma or medications that cause dry mouth, and may require alterations to your treatment or suggested procedures. Additionally, discussing sleeping, smoking, vaping, alcohol use, or other lifestyle habits informs the team to be on the lookout for related symptoms that may affect the approach the team takes to your oral care, overall health, or oral hygiene routine.
A Thorough Oral Exam is Performed
Next, it is time for the team to take an up-close examination of your teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks. Dr. Hanigofsky checks on any concerns you may be experiencing during this time, along with looking for symptoms of underlying conditions, as he does for all wellness visits. Since Dr. Hanigofsky will oftentimes be the first to notice the beginning stages of a myriad of diseases, these screenings are imperative for catching such illnesses as early as possible to improve the opportunities for treatment and lower the impact of the treatment in terms of stressing your body, time, emotions, and expense. regularly maintained wellness visits. Moreover, Dr. Hanigofsky is searching during this time for the best way to care for your teeth and gum health and will make note of such concerns as gingivitis, cavities, pocket depth, sealant protection, bite alignment, and much more.
Take X-Rays
Along with the above exam, the team may take X-Rays to review areas that cannot be seen otherwise. Some examples include decay between teeth, an old filling, and other structural damage that is not visible on the surface of the tooth or gumline. This way, Dr. Hanigofsky does not miss a step in preventative or restorative care that could have a direct link to areas of concern in your mouth as well as other areas of your body.
Make a Plan
The assessment is now complete, and a plan for treatment options will be developed and discussed with you to help reach your optimal health. Dr. Hanigofsky is proactive in his approach to dental care and will always offer professional advice on all noted issues that may require action in an effort to make you feel as pain-free and healthy as possible using the latest proven techniques and technology available. By being proactive with all healthcare needs, patients can expect to save significantly on repairs and treatments that are caught in early stages, as opposed to waiting until they become a much more urgent and costly concern.
Therefore, whether you are looking for cosmetic dentistry options or you are interested in finding a dentist for your ongoing general and restorative care, you will find a full suite of comprehensive dental services at the Hickory Dentist by Dental Health Concepts with Dr. Hanigofsky and his experienced team. Learn more about Dr. Hanigofsky and what you can expect from his customized initial exam by filling out our convenient online form or calling (828) 322-2133 today and scheduling your free consultation. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice soon!
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