Dental Exams

 

Dr. Kotre and her Dr. Kotre and her team of hygienists and assistants perform a complete dental exam at every check up.  This includes taking a full medical history, or updating your chart as needed if you are an existing patient.  Next, the surface of each tooth is is checked for new cavities and to make sure any existing fillings or other restorative work is still in good condition.  Finally, after viewing any x-rays or other materials relevant to your case, Dr. Kotre will go over the results of your exam with you to discuss her findings, as well as any concerns or other issues if they are found.

 

 

 

Teeth Cleaning, Scaling, and Polishing

 

During your check up, your dental hygienist will perform a full dental cleaning, including scaling to remove any sort of deposits that may have accumulated on the teeth, checking the gums for periodontal disease, and then flossing and gently polishing your teeth to complete your cleaning.  We also offer laser dentistry at our Ann Arbor dental practice.  Please feel free to call for details on how laser dentistry can treat many common dental issues quickly, and often, painlessly. 

 

 

 

Dental X-rays

 

During your dental check up, your your hygienist may take either full mouth x-rays or bitewings (molars and premolars), depending on what is needed.  This allows Dr. Kotre to check for issues that may not otherwise be visible.

 

A dental sealant is a type of lightweight resin that can be applied to the teeth to help prevent cavities.  Dental sealants keep food and plaque from sitting directly on the teeth, which in turn prevents decay.  Sealants are especially helpful when applied to the molars, which can be difficult for people to effectively clean on their own.

 

 

 

Oral Cancer Screening

 

Thanks to advances in screening procedures, new cases of oral cancer have been slowly decreasing overall.  However, the number of cases in those under age 40 is actually rising.  Therefore, it is important that you choose a provider who is able to screen you for oral cancer.  Dr. Kotre is trained to provide a thorough screening for oral cancer during your dental exam.

 

 

 

Periodontal Cleanings

 

Periodontal cleanings are performed as part of the treatment protocol for gingivitis and periodontitis. This type of deep cleaning helps to prevent infection, which if left untreated, can eventually lead to the destruction of gum tissue, bone, and other supporting structures.

 

 

 

Athletic/Sport Mouth Guards

 

Dr. Kotre is able to fit all patients for custom athletic and sport mouthguards.  Custom-designed mouthguards are preferable to those purchased over the counter as it allows several important individual factors to be taken into consideration when they are created.  These can include the type of sport the mouthguard is for, the patient's individual injury history, the level of competition the mouthguard will be used in, as well as the age of the athlete being fitted for the guard.

 

 

 

Bite Splints (for TMJ and Grinding)

 

Bite splints are an extremely effective treatment for those with symptoms of TMJ, who find that they often clench or grind their teeth, especially at night.  Bite splints are essentially hard, lightweight plates that provide a base to bite against, which also protects the teeth from cracking or other damage that can be caused by excessive grinding.

 

 

 

Fluoride Treatment

 

Fluoride is applied topically to the teeth in order to prevent cavities.  As indicated or requested, fluoride treatment is available.

 

 

 

Electric Toothbrushes

 

There are many benefits to using an electric toothbrush over a manual version.  Electric toothbrushes provide a cleaning solution that is much more thorough than what you are able to achieve with a manual brush, and remove a great deal more plaque.  They are excellent at helping to prevent and even reverse gum disease such as gingivitis when used properly. 

 

Some of the more advanced models offer the option of UV brush sanitizing, gum massage, and special settings for sensitive teeth.  Electric toothbrushes are also great at removing surface stains, such as those acquired via frequent coffee and wine consumption, or from cigarette smoking.  They also help freshen breath by removing more bacteria than a manual brush. 

 

Arthritis suffers often find relief by using an electric toothbrush, as it eases the strain on hands and wrists that can come from using a manual brush properly.

 

Dr. Kotre offers several different models of electric toothbrushes, including those by Oral-B and Braun.  Please contact us for more information and current specials.