Dental Exams

Comprehensive Examination: The initial comprehensive examination is a process in which Dr. Hengst & Dr. Stirling take necessary records to provide a thorough diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan. This examination will include:

Oral Cancer Screening

If you are a tobacco or smokeless tobacco user, you are in primary danger of developing oral cancer. More than 8,000 deaths were attributed to oral cancer in the past year. We are committed to the prevention of oral cancer through the early identification of pre-cancerous conditions, and provide oral cancer screenings at each preventive care appointment.

Periodontal Examination:

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Dr. Hengst or Dr. Stirling will examine your gum tissues to ensure that gum disease is detected in its early stages. Because bone loss is a significant consideration in determining the outcome of cosmetic treatment, we take the health of your gum and bone tissues very seriously.

Occlusal Examination

The forces of your bite can sometimes affect the positioning of your jaw and teeth. Through minor polishing of the enamel surfaces or smoothing fillings of the teeth, Dr. Hengst or Dr. Stirling can help redistribute and redirect the biting forces. Adjustments to chewing surfaces can often eliminate headaches that occur as a result of irregular biting patterns..

Caries Exam

During this visual examination, Dr. Hengst locates areas of decay on chewing surfaces and between the teeth. Dr. Hengst & Dr. Stirling uses both a clinical exam and x-ray (radiographic) findings to determine the most conservative treatment plan for your oral needs.

Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction Examination

TMJ is a condition that afflicts thousands of people. Frequent indicators of TMJ include popping and clicking of the jaw, limited jaw function, pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, and pain and pressure in the face and ears. We provide conservative therapies that can eliminate this painful and frustrating problem.

Dental Implants

We have the ability to restore various types of dental implants. Dr. Hengst or Dr. Stirling will be happy to evaluate your dental needs and determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.

Local Anesthesia

This anesthesia is injected into the gum tissue at or near the area to be treated, producing a numbing effect that wears off after the procedure. Most dental patients find that the use of local anesthesia allows them to experience dental treatment comfortably.