Preventative Dentistry in McHenry

Dental exams, treatments, and screenings

Cleaning | Comprehensive Exam | Flouride Treatment | Oral Cancer Screening

The American Dental Association recommends you see your dentist every six months. Preventive dental care can help you reduce or avoid future costs by preventing and finding potential issues sooner. Because many diseases and conditions first show signs in your mouth, good dental health and a strong relationship with your dental office are important steps in your overall health

Comprehensive Exam

• Our dentists provide comprehensive patient exams that include:
• Medical history review
• Evaluation of existing dental conditions and treatment recommendations
• Oral cancer screening
• Smile evaluation
• Blood pressure screening
• A review of any concerns you may have
• X-rays (based on need)
• Risk assessment for dental decay
• Evaluation of the jaw and joint (TMJ)
• Periodontal screening to determine health of your gums and supporting structures

The doctor will review all findings and discuss possible treatment options to help you achieve the smile you deserve.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride can be an important part of preventing tooth decay in patients of all ages. During your visit, we will determine your risk for dental decay by discussing your diet, home care, previous decay history, illnesses and prescription medications. Fluoride treatment can be done in the office, or at home.

In the office: Treatment can be done during your regular exam using a tray with gel or foam fluoride. A more highly concentrated fluoride varnish that is brushed onto your teeth can also be used.

At home: Options for fluoride treatment include prescription toothpastes or a daily rinse. It is important to follow all recommendations made by your dentist and to also be aware of the fluoride levels in your water.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. McHenry Dental Associates provides oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental exam. There are two main risk factors for oral cancer. Smoking and tobacco use are long-term historic causes of oral cancer. In addition, the HPV-16 virus, a sexually-transmitted disease, is resulting in the fastest-growing segment of oral cancer patients being young, healthy, nonsmoking individuals.

The Symptoms of Oral Cancer Include:

• Sores in the mouth that bleed easily or do not heal
• A thick or hard spot or lump
• A roughened or crusted area
• Numbness, pain or tenderness
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down

When found early, oral cancers have an 80 to 90 percent survival rate. Dentists can be a first line of defense in identifying abnormalities in the mouth, which could be a sign of oral cancer.

Why choose McHenry Dental Associates for preventative dentistry

McHenry Dental Associates makes it easy to afford high-quality general dentistry and easy to attain since it’s all under one roof. We tailor your care experience to your priorities and budget and don’t pressure you to get treatments you don’t want or need. We value your input and we always co-plan your care together.