Oral Health Check-Up
Everyone needs an oral health exam annually! Teeth or no teeth, an annual mouth exam is vital for early detection of oral cancer and other abnormal conditions. Bone loss, tissue shrinkage, gum changes, bite changes and jaw problems are just some of the complications that can arise and if treated early can also be stabilized. Your commitment to yearly check-ups with your dental professional is an essential part of maintaining a healthy mouth.
Regular professional cleanings for natural teeth and/or implants is crucial in maintaining oral health as well as overall health. Dentures also benefit from professional cleanings to remove tarter and stains. Once your inital assessment and cleaning is complete, your dental hygienist will recommend a unique recare schedule that will meet your individulal oral health needs.
What to expect during your denture check up
- Update your dental & medical history
- Assess oral health and gum disease
- Cleaning and polishing of natural teeth, implants & dentures
- Intra/extra oral examination
- Check the integrity of your dentures and implants
- Check the esthetics, stability and bite
- Discuss options available based on your needs
The Oral Cancer Exam
An oral cancer exam is painless and quick — it takes only a few minutes. Your regular dental check-up is an excellent opportunity to have the exam.
Here's what to expect:
- Preparing for the exam: If you have dentures(plates) or partials, you will be asked to remove them.
- Your health care provider will inspect your face, neck, lips, and mouth to look for any signs of cancer.
- With both hands, he or she will feel the area under your jaw and the side of your neck, checking for lumps that may suggest cancer.
- He or she will then look at and feel the insides of your lips and cheeks to check for possible signs of cancer, such as red and/or white patches.
- Next, your provider will have you stick out your tongue so it can be checked for swelling or abnormal color or texture.
- Using gauze, he or she will then gently pull your tongue to one side, then the other, to check the base of your tongue. The underside of your tongue will also be checked.
- In addition, he or she will look at the roof and floor of your mouth, as well as the back of your throat.
- Finally, your provider will put one finger on the floor of your mouth and, with the other hand under your chin, gently press down to check for lumps or sensitivity.
Denture Specialists
Walter Assmus, DD, FCADRegistered Dental Hygienist
Lorraine Foster, RDHContact
Richmond Denture & Implant Centre
#280, 5255 Richmond Rd SW Calgary
T3E 7C4
Next to London Drugs
Corner of Sarcee and Richmond Road
Phone: 403.217.5666
Fax: 403.217.5669
Email: rdic@shaw.ca