Comprehensive Preventative Dental Care at Dillard Dental Services

The team at Dillard Dental Services in Nashville, Tennessee, believes in providing preventative dental care through routine dental exams and cleanings. Let’s look at these services and what you can expect when you visit!

Doctor and Patient in Clinic

What can I expect during my dental examination?

Before your new patient exam, we gather vital information. All new patient consultations begin with a conversation. We will inquire about your dental care experience and ask you to share any specific concerns. We acknowledge that visiting the dentist can cause varying degrees of anxiety for many people. We aim to alleviate these concerns by understanding all our patients’ fears. Additionally, it’s crucial for us to learn about your dental history and the goals you have for your treatment. We invite you to share these with us during your visit.

Will I need dental x-rays when I visit?

If previous dental records are available, we will include them in our evaluation to understand your dental history. If current records are not available, or we need up to date images, we will capture the images we need during your visit with low dose digital x-rays sensors.

What information should I provide to my dentist during this visit?

It is important that you provide us with all health history information including any medications you currently take. A thorough  review of this information is a vital part of your examination and will assist us in identifying any signs and symptoms that could be related to other health concerns or side effects from your medications. This background information provides the foundation we need to begin your dental exam.

What are the steps involved in a traditional examination appointment?

At Dillard Dental Services, an exam includes the following steps:

  • An oral cancer screening using visual and tactile examination of the tongue, lips, cheeks, palate, and floor of the mouth will be completed during your  new patient exam and your bi-annual periodic exam.
  • We will assess your oral hygiene and note any areas we want you to be aware of. This includes recording any crowded, absent, or misaligned teeth, which can sometimes create additional challenges to good oral hygiene.
  • An inspection of your existing dental work like crowns, fillings, or appliances noting areas showing signs of wear and tear.
  • A detailed examination of each visible tooth surface and its fissures and pits, looking for signs of decay, erosion, trauma, and uneven wear from bruxism.
  • A periodontal examination to assess the condition of gum tissue and bone surrounding each tooth to determine the extent of inflammation affecting the bone that supports your teeth.
  • Intraoral photographs will be captured and reviewed  along with these steps to uncover what cannot be seen during a routine mouth examination.
  • Using  low-dose digital sensors we will capture any radiographs needed
    • Bitewing x-rays will be used to detect decay between your teeth, bone loss around your teeth,and any ill fitting restorations.
    • Panoramic 360-degree x-rays provide us with a comprehensive view of developing and unerupted teeth and detect any irregularities in your sinuses, temporomandibular joints, and the structures of your face and jaw.
    • CBCT scans (Cone-beam Computed Tomography) allow us to have a 3D view of your mouth to capture what regular x-rays may not show.

What happens during my professional dental cleaning?

Our registered dental hygienist will perform a professional dental cleaning. If there is no gum disease present, your initial visit will include a dental examination along with the following:

  • Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus refers to tartar, a substance that firmly adheres to the tooth’s surface. It can form above and below the gum line and is removable with professional assistance.
  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a nearly invisible, sticky film that collects on the teeth. It consists of living bacteria, food particles, saliva, and debris. These bacteria release toxins that lead to the inflammation of the gums, a condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis marks the initial stage of potential gum disease.
  • Teeth polishing: Remove any remaining stain and plaque, leaving you with a fresh feeling and a beautiful smile!

Who can I contact to schedule an appointment?

Call the team at Dillard Dental Services in Nashville, Tennessee, to request an appointment with Dr. Leslie Dillard and her associates. The office can be reached by telephone at (615) 541-4722.