In order to provide a sound foundation of understanding, Dr. Brimhall makes it a point that during your New Patient Examination, you have plenty of time to communicate your expectations and desires. Though exciting and potentially life-altering, not all individuals are interested in cosmetic improvements of their smile. We want to make sure we can have an open and honest conversation.
A new patient exam typically includes a full-mouth set of radiographs; this gives Dr. Brimhall and his staff crucial information about your mouth. If you have had a recent full-mouth series of radiographs, we would be more than happy to request those radiographs from your previous office; however, depending upon the diagnostic quality, some additional radiographs may be required.
A comprehensive head/neck is also completed, which includes an evaluation of the temporal-mandibular joint (TMJ), muscles of the head/neck region, and lymph nodes. Although many individuals do not have any symptoms, catching potential warning signs of joint problems can prevent a host of future problems. Oral evaluation includes charting all existing dental work and any areas of concern. Full-mouth periodontal probings are also completed, which provide invaluable information about the health of the mouth. Any areas that have bleeding, infection, or hard deposits on the teeth (tartar or calculus) are also recorded. In addition, any recession (exposure of the root surface of a tooth) is charted to provide a baseline to help maintain existing levels and determine if certain areas would benefit from grafting.
Full mouth photographs are also taken during the new patient exam. Photographs provide a wealth of information. We want you to be as excited about your teeth as we are. Having photographs also serves as a baseline so that future changes can be compared to the original photographs, not to mention that it is an amazing feeling to look back and see where we started after treatment is completed.
Following the comprehensive exam, Dr. Brimhall will sit down with you and explain the findings, giving you a tour of your mouth. Depending upon the extent of the needed work, an additional, courtesy appointment may be needed to thoroughly discuss the findings and possible options that could address any areas of concern; from this discussion, a plan will be made to accomplish all the goals that have been made together.
Please call today at (520) 745-1220 and schedule an appointment to see what a difference customized care could mean for you.