Regular dental exams are important because they allow us to keep a close watch for changes in your oral health. We screen for everything starting with cavities and decay using both Logicon and Canary System technologies. They’re both forms of highly effective radiographic (X-ray) interpretation assisting software that are extremely accurate at the early detection of decay. Logicon shows our doctors where your teeth are low in density. This usually means a cavity or two is present. Higher density shows us that there’s a good chance decay hasn’t attacked the inside of your tooth and it can be treated without drilling. The Canary System also helps give your dentist a full, complete picture of your tooth decay, showing them potential issues that are not visible during a visual exam or x-rays for added cavity detection power.
But the advanced preventive care doesn’t end there! Your doctor will also use special magnifying glasses and illumination technology called Loupes during every procedure and exam. They provide an even better view of your teeth because your dentist can efficiently fix something they can’t fully see.
We’ll also assess your risk for gum disease, TMJ issues, and even sleep apnea. Our highly skilled team will take the time to compare your results from exam to exam, checking for even the tiniest changes that could indicate the beginning a potential problem. Together, we’ll ensure your teeth are healthy and cared for.
Believe it or not, oral cancer is one of the fastest growing cancers in the US. And it isn’t just tobacco users who are in danger of oral cancer. Lots of factors, including heredity, sun exposure, alcohol, and HPV can contribute to your risk factors. We suggest oral cancer screenings at your hygiene appointment because the earlier we discover the possibility of cancer, the easier it is to treat.
Maintaining good oral health also means keeping up with routine hygiene appointments. This procedure is important to keep teeth clean, along with stopping the formation of plaque and tartar. These difficult-to-remove biofilms can allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream through your gums, possibly leading to future health problems. We use the Cavitron ultrasonic cleaner to gently deep clean your teeth, lifting away all the plaque and tartar. It also polishes the surface of your teeth, making it more difficult for plaque to adhere to. We also offer a low abrasive, take-home, tooth cleaning paste to minimize enamel erosion and damage to your dental restorations.
Our digital x-rays offer a safer alternative to traditional x-rays with lower exposure to radiation. The doctors also use additional x-ray software called Logicon. It’s extremely accurate and allows us to clearly see any damage or decay present in your teeth much faster and more efficiently than previous technology. Logicon easily detects differences in density within your teeth, a good indicator of the likely presence of decay now or possibly in the future. McKee Family Dentistry also offers efficient panoramic x-rays to allow for a full, clearer picture of not only your mouth but also your neck and jaw.
Every smile is precious. That’s why we recommend protecting your teeth, or your kids’ teeth with dental guards.
Our custom fitted and designed sports mouthguards are ideal for kids who are involved in sports or other physical activities and protect not only from tooth injury, but also from soft tissue damage and even lessen the risk for concussions. And since they are custom fitted, they are much more comfortable so kids actually wear them.
If you clench or grind your teeth at night (also known as bruxism) you may be damaging your teeth or valuable restorations without even knowing it. We screen you for any signs of bruxism at every visit and if we notice wearing, cracking or chipping, we may recommend a dental nightguard. These comfortable guards protect your teeth and may also relieve symptoms of TMJ disorder.
As part of our routine screening panel, McKee Family Dentistry also offers a comprehensive sleep apnea screening. If we notice signs that it may be present, we can direct you to a sleep specialist for further testing. If you already know you have sleep apnea, but you can’t tolerate your CPAP device, we urge you to let us know. We offer tiny, comfortable sleep apnea and snoring appliances that fit over your teeth and help you get a more comfortable night’s rest.
