Oral Pathology

Dental Exam

A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit.  At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will perform 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.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists.  Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:

• Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is a 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 stains and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Ready to redefine your smile? Schedule your consultation now at Mina Family Dentistry, One of the best Thornhill Dental practices, Mina family dentistry the best provider of oral surgery practices in Thornhill.

The role of radiographs

Oral pathology involves the study and diagnosis of different diseases affecting the oral regions. One crucial aspect of diagnosing these conditions is the use of radiograph technology, commonly known as  X-rays. Radiographs provide detailed images of internal structures of the mouth teeth and jawbones, which are not visible through a standard examination. They play an essential role in detecting various health issues, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and even cysts or tumors.

Types of radiographs used in oral pathology

Various types of radiographs are utilized to diagnose and manage oral diseases. One common type is the periapical radiograph. Which focuses on the entire tooth, from the crown to the root, along with the surrounding bone structure. This type of x-ray imaging is crucial for identifying issues such as root infections and bone loss associated with periodontal or gum disease.

Panoramic radiographs offer a broader view, capturing the entire mouth in a single image, including all teeth, the upper and lower jaws, and the surrounding structures. This type of radiograph is beneficial for diagnosing conditions such as impacted teeth, jaw tumors, and cysts. Additionally, this provides an overview of the teeth alignment and the overall health of bone structure.

Oral cancer screening

Oral cancer screening is a critical part of comprehensive dental care. It’s designed to detect potential signs of oral cancer at the earliest stage possible. This process typically includes an examination of the oral cavity, including the lips gums, and tongue. Dentists look for unusual sores and discoloration that may indicate the presence of cancerous conditions. Advanced tools such as VELscope, which uses fluorescence visualization, can assist the abnormal tissues that may not be visible naked eye, thereby enhancing the early detection of oral cancer.

Procedures involved in oral cancer screening

The initial step is a visual examination of the entire oral cavity. Including the lips gums tongue and cheeks and roof and floor of the mouth. Dentists at mina family dentistry in Thornhill carefully check for any abnormalities such as unusual sores, white or red patches, and lumps. This visual assessment is crucial for spotting potential signs of oral cancer or a condition that may not be obvious at first sight.

Gum disease evaluation

The evaluation process begins with a clinical examination of the gums. This involves assessing the color texture and firmness of the gingival tissues. Dentists look for signs of swelling bleeding and inflammation, which indicate gum disease. They also measure the gum pocket depth using a periodontal probe to detect loss of attachment between the teeth and gums, a key marker of periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms to look for

One critical sign to watch for is sores or ulcers that do not heal within two weeks. These can indicate various conditions such as oral cancer. At mina family dentistry in Thornhill patients are advised to report any unusual or non-healing lesions immediately.

Another symptom to look out for is chronic bad breath or halitosis, which is not resolved by oral hygiene practices. Persistent bad breath can be a sign of underlying issues such as gum disease or even health problems. Mina family dentistry conducts different evaluations to determine the root cause of chronic bad breath, utilizing diagnostic tools to identify and address the underlying condition.

Examination of tooth decay

Mina family dentistry in Thornhill employs digital radiography to assess the extent of tooth decay. Digital X-rays provide detailed images of teeth and underlying structures. Revealing decay that is not visible on the surface. Bitewing X-ray for example is useful for detecting interproximal decay between teeth. These radiographs and images allow the dental team at mina family dentistry in Thornhill to assess the impact on tooth structure and find the best type of treatment for fillings, crowns, or other restorative procedures.

Understanding tooth decay and its causes

Tooth decay is a progressive disease with is caused by the demineralization of tooth enamel due to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria use sugars and starches and form a sticky substance called plaque on the teeth. At mina family dentistry in Thornhill, we educate patients about the nature of this condition. This includes explaining how plaque build-up leads to the breakdown of enamel, causing cavities and affecting the pulp if not treated.

FAQ

What is oral pathology?

Oral pathology is the study and diagnosis of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions, including many regions such as teeth, gums, jawbones, and surrounding tissues. It involves identifying conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, cysts, and tumors through various diagnostic methods, including radiographs.

What types of radiographs are used in oral pathology?

Two types of radiographs are used in oral pathology, periapical radiographs and panoramic radiographs. The former focuses on the entire tooth but the latter provides a view of the entire mouth.

How does Mina family dentistry in Thornhill perform oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer screenings include visual examination of the oral cavity, dentists look for unusual spots, discoloration, or lumps. Different tools are used to detect abnormalities in tissues.

How does Mina family dentistry in Thornhill detect and treat tooth decay?

Mina family dentistry in Thornhill uses radiography to detect tooth decay that is not visible on the surface. These X-rays help us to assess the amount of decay and determine the best course of action.

What causes tooth decay and how can it be prevented?

Tooth decay is caused by the demineralization of tooth enamel due to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria thrive on sugars and starches, causing plaque buildup which leads to cavities. By using preventive measures such as maintaining good oral hygiene, reducing sugar usage, and regular dental check-ups you can avoid tooth decay.