Periodontal Exam

A comprehensive periodontal exam will be performed by Dr. Mabry at your initial dental visit.  At regular check-up exams, Dr. Mabry and/or your hygienist will include the following:

• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.

• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

• Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.

• Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.

• Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.

Periodontal Supportive Therapy (PST)

It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into calculus (tartar).  Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas need special attention.

Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend that you have frequent  maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), usually four times a year.  Generally, Dr. Mabry would prefer that you alternate your cleanings between our office and your general dentists office, ensuring complete treatment for all of your dental needs.  At these cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy.  Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line.

Periodontal Supportive Therapy (periodontal dental prophylaxis) are always performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist.  Your cleaning appointment will include a periodontal exam and the following:

• Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

• Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Please Contact us to begin your Periodontal Maintenance Program today:

985-646-1421

1241 A 7th St.

Slidell, LA  70458