The biggest problem with tooth and gum issues is they typically do not hurt until it is too late. Symptoms of poor oral health can sometimes be so subtle that you don’t even notice them. However, Dr. Coon will be able to spot less obvious problems immediately. By putting off exams and treatments, oftentimes it becomes much more painful (both on you and your wallet) to address the issue. We offer comprehensive exams to better enable us to diagnose problems when they are in the early stages of disease. Depending on your personal state of health, you will have X-rays taken to aid in the diagnosis. These X-rays include the following:

Panoramic images – these give us an overall view of your case and screen for potential arterial hardening or TMJ issues.

• Bitewing X-rays – Bitewings help us see in between your back teeth and can help us know how deep any decay may go.
• Periapical x-rays – Periapicals (PAs) help us visualize the roots of teeth, and help us see the surrounding bone and ligaments that support the teeth. PAs help us catch teeth that are affected by chewing trauma and necrotic teeth that may not hurt but could abscess at any time.
• Full Mouth X-rays – This is a combination of bitewings and periapicals that is used for complete diagnosis, or when cavities are suspected throughout the mouth
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) – Our CBCT allows us to take 3-D scans of your jaws. This allows us to pre-plan any surgeries you may need, or detect lesions before they become problematic. Only ~10% of general dental offices have these machines available. At Ease Dental is proud to provide the most up-to-date technology that makes planning surgeries such as implants or wisdom teeth extractions much easier and safer for our patients.

After proper records and X-rays are taken, your exam will also offer a complimentary oral cancer screening. Oral cancer used to be a disease strongly associated with heavy smokers and drinkers. But with the widespread prevalence of HPV, now everyone needs to be screened regularly. Much like Mono, HPV can be spread by sharing saliva. This disease is the largest contributor to oral cancer. Regardless of your age, you should be screened regularly for any signs of head and neck cancer.