Plano Dentist

The frequency of tobacco and non-tobacco related oral cancer is on the rise in our country. Statistics show that one American dies every hour from this deadly form of cancer primarily due to late detection. Tobacco and alcohol use are the major risk factor but 25% of oral cancer victims have no lifestyle risk factors. Of the 25% at least 20% of cases according to studies shows the human papillomavirus (HPV 16/18) playing a major role. Vizilite Plus is similar to proven early detection procedures for other cancers such as mammography, pap smear and PSA. This simple and painless exam should be done annually. While the visual inspection for oral cancer that you receive as a new patient or at your cleaning appointments is good, we have learned that early detection utilizing the vizilite oral cancer detection method allows us a much earlier and more accurate detection, minimizing or eliminating potentially disfiguring effects. Early detection of this aggressive form of cancer can save lives. This enhanced exam is recognized by the American Dental Association as code D0431, however, Dental insurance companies typically do not cover this life saving oral cancer screening. It is a $49 out of pocket expense that should be done annually.

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A panoramic x-ray is a very important diagnostic tool that allows us to screen for diseases of the jaw, teeth, sinus and TMJ joint. The panoramic x-ray is helpful in diagnosing calcifications or blockage of the carotid artery and is the x-ray of choice in determining the status of wisdom teeth. This x-ray should be done for all new patients in addition to a full mouth series of x-rays as a baseline record of health. It is also recommended for young people ages 16- 21 for wisdom teeth evaluation in addition to cavity detecting bitewing x-rays. The panoramic x-ray is also recommended every 2-3 years for all adult patients at the comprehensive exam interval. The Panoramic x-ray is usually an out of pocket expense of $115 (or your negotiated contract fee) as most insurance companies deny coverage of this important diagnostic tool specially when taken with other x-rays.

The role of our TMJ joint and the way teeth bite together has a major impact on your long term dental health. It can affect every part of the chewing system. Problems with our bite/TMJ can lead to many serious dental problems. These problems include but are not limited to headaches, migraines, ringing in the ears, head and neck pain, pathologic tooth wear, bad bites, abfracting or notching of the enamel along the gumline, chronic periodontal(gum) problems, popping, clicking or painful TMJ joints, overloading of the teeth causing premature failure of dental restorations or fracturing of the teeth. The comprehensive bite analysis is a very in depth study of jaw function and evaluation of your bite. This exam should be done every 5years for most adults. This analysis should also be done for anyone experiencing any of the above problems and is recommended for post orthodontic case refinement. This analysis will include a bite registration, diagnostic cast of your teeth mounted anatomically correct on a jaw simulator to allow you and your doctor an out the mouth view of your teeth and jaw function. After careful evaluation of the data collected you will have a follow-up consultation with the doctor to discuss findings and recommendation. Undiagnosed bite problems can lead to expensive breakdown of the teeth, jaw and gums. The comprehensive bite analysis is a $249 out of pocket expense.