An ounce of prevention is a pound of cure.

For new and existing patients, we begin with a comprehensive examination and create a treatment plan that is customized for your unique oral needs. Your examination will include digital x-rays as well as a visual and physical exam to look for new cavities, weaknesses in teeth and existing restorative work, gum health, and identify any abnormalities in hard & soft tissues .

A comprehensive exam and cleaning may include the following steps:

DIGITAL X-RAYS

Dental x-rays are used as a diagnostic tool, providing invaluable information. X-rays provide the details that can not be detected with our eyes and hands alone. Our objective is to identify issues as early as possible, and without x-rays, problem areas can go undetected and worsen with time, inevitably this necessitates more invasive, complex, and costly procedures. They are used to detect decay, bone loss, tumors, cysts, and numerous other dental issues while helping us to map the position of your teeth and their roots.  Dr. Kumar uses this information to safely and accurately formulate a complete and thorough treatment plan.

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Dr. Kumar will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and caries risk. For our new patients, the initial x-rays provide us with a more accurate baseline for future assessments and evaluation of minor changes that could otherwise go unnoticed.

Digital dental x-rays are safe,  producing a very low level of radiation. In New York  standards, it is comparable to walking outside and many other everyday activities. We take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays which include using lead apron shields to protect the body, and the utilization of a digital x-ray system, which also reduces the amount of radiation exposure significantly compared to traditional films.

DENTAL PROPHYLAXIS/ CLEANING

Using both hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaler, Dr. Kumar or a member of her hygienist team will gently break up plaque and tartar that build up above & below the gum line. This is an important part of our preventive regimen, keeping your smile healthy, ultimately reducing the risk for more invasive procedures.

Our intent is to set our patients up for success! The  team will equip our patients with at-home care tips to maintain your oral health between visits.

ORAL CANCER SCREENING













Early detection is everything, nobody ever regrets a quick screening. During your routine exam, our team will also check for oral cancer. Signs or indicators include feeling for irregular tissue or bumps in your mouth, neck, and head. Many patients have abnormal spots or sores in their mouths, with majority being identified as non-cancerous. However, we are not risk-takers when it comes to our patient’s wellbeing. Which is why if we notice anything unusual or concerning, a biopsy may be recommended for further examination.

Aside from visiting us for your checkup every six months, there are a number of ways you can reduce your risk for oral cancer:

  • Avoid ALL tobacco products. Period.

  • Keep the cocktails to a minimum. Moderation equates to one drink for a woman and two for a man.

  • Eat the rainbow! Maintain a healthy and balanced diet containing a variety of fruits and vegetables.

  • Limit sun exposure and always wear SPF.w34

Between visits, your own hands & eyes are invaluable. We want our patients to take an active role in their own oral health and be aware of the signs & symptoms:

  • Red or white sores or spots in the mouth

  • A sore that does not heal or bleeds easily

  • A thick, lump, or rough spot of irregular mouth tissue

  • Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or on the lips

  • Problems chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your jaw

You don’t have to brush your teeth...just the ones you want to keep!

While visiting us for your comprehensive exams and cleanings are important, it’s essential that you hold up your end of the deal and maintain your oral health in between visits by maintaining good oral health by doing the following:

  • BRUSH

  • FLOSS

  • RINSE WITH A FLUORIDATED & ALCOHOL-FREE MOUTHWASH

  • BALANCED DIET

  • LOTS OF WATER

  • REGULAR CHECK-UPS