Charlotte, NC dentist, Arthur R. Schramm III DDS, prepares for each new patient. Learn what happens during the first appointment and other common procedures.
When a new patient comes to Schramm Dentistry, he or she can expect highly individualized and skilled treatment, delivered in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Charlotte, NC cosmetic dentist,
Arthur Schramm, develops a comprehensive treatment plan for preventive, restorative and cosmetic needs of people of all ages.
It all begins with an oral exam
The routine dental exam provides your Charlotte, NC dentist with a wealth of information about oral and overall health. Often, systemic infections, chronic conditions such as diabetes and other issues present telltale symptoms in the soft tissues of the mouth.
Once the patient is comfortably seated in the dental chair, Dr. Schramm visually inspects the teeth, gums, soft oral tissues, jaw joints and even overall facial structure. He takes a series of digital x-rays, the low-radiation version of old style radiographs. These images show tooth roots, bone structure and hidden decay.
Dr. Schramm also:
- inspects for dental decay
- checks for proper tooth alignment and bite
- evaluates the jaw joint for temporomandibular joint dysfunction (noisy, painful, poorly functioning joint)
- looks at the condition of fillings, crowns, veneers and other restorations and cosmetic improvements
- performs painless periodontal probing, measuring gum pocket depth with a small instrument
- does an oral cancer assessment (as this deadly cancer affects more than 48,000 new patients each year in the United States alone)
In addition, a skilled dental hygienist uses manual instruments to gently remove sticky plaque and hard tartar from in between teeth and underneath the gum line. She polishes the teeth using a mildly abrasive paste and flosses as well, leaving the mouth fresh and sparkling.
Dr. Schramm reports his exam findings to the patient and discusses treatment options. At this time, he will address concerns about aesthetic goals such as whiter teeth or orthodontics.
The typical filling procedure
Tooth decay strikes more than 90 percent of people at some time during their lives. However common, Dr. Schramm treats each cavity precisely and thoroughly, ensuring that he preserves as much natural tooth structure as possible.
In years past, the only available filling material was amalgam--a dark, metal alloy. While still used in the largest of restorations, many cavities are treated with composite resin. Tooth-colored, durable and bonded right to tooth enamel, composite resin fillings strengthen and beautify damaged teeth.
To start the procedure, Dr. Schramm usually administers a local anesthetic, or pain shot, to numb the area and make the patient completely comfortable. He may install a small rubber dam around the tooth to keep it dry.
Then, using a high speed drill, he removes the decayed tooth enamel, suctioning out the debris and saliva. A slower speed drill and hand instruments finish preparing the site to receive the composite resin. The Charlotte, NC cosmetic dentist uses an etching liquid on the tooth so it readily receives the resin filling.
Dr. Schramm puts the resin down in layers, hardening each layer with a curing light to achieve a strong bond. He shapes and smoothes the filling so that it looks natural and bites together with other its neighbors. After a bite check with carbon paper, the filling is complete.
Trust your oral health to Schramm Dentistry
Dr. Schramm and his team offer a wide range of preventive, restorative and cosmetic services. You can rest assured your smile will remain bright and healthy for many years.
Contact the office today to set-up a new patient appointment.
By Schramm Dentistry
February 2, 2016
