Ogden, Utah 801-479-7870 Request Appointment

Dentist Ogden, Utah

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Your Health

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The Mouth-Body Connection

Research studies have shown that there is a strong association between periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.

Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gum tissue, periodontal infection below the gum line and a presence of disease-causing bacteria in the oral region. Halting the progression of periodontal disease and maintaining excellent standards of oral hygiene will not only reduce the risk of gum disease and bone loss, but also reduce the chances of developing other serious illnesses.

Importance of Dental Exams

At Crowton Dental, a comprehensive dental exam will be performed by Dr. Crowton at your initial dental visit. During your regular check-up exam, both your dentist and hygienist will include 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.

Your 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 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 stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. Topical fluoride strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay. Our dentist and dental hygienists generally recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.

Our dentist or dental hygienists may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:

•	Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
•	Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
•	Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
•	Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.
•	Inadequate exposure to fluorides.
•	Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications.
•	Recent history of dental decay.

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay! It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Digital X-Rays

Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.

Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Dental x-rays may reveal:

•	Abscesses or cysts
•	Bone loss
•	Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
•	Decay between the teeth
•	Developmental abnormalities
•	Poor tooth and root positions
•	Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line