In our office the full exam is the initial gathering of all the important information about the patient. The information includes existing tooth conditions, dental history, health history, x-rays, photographs, study models, periodontal review, cancer screening, TMJ exam, orthodontic analysis and esthetic analysis.
Dr. Sperbeck, West Los Angeles
A TMJ exam is the reviewing of the systems that move and support the temporal-mandibular joint. In our office, this has several componants:
1. We examine all the muscles and palpate the joints for discomfort. Healthy TMJs are not sensative to touch.
2. We listen to the movement joint with a Doppler. We are listening for bones rubbing and discs slipping. What we hear can also give us an idea of the health of the bone surfaces and the cartilaginous disc.
3. We also measure the range of motion that the jaw can move. Normal ranges are from 38-45 mm for women and 42-50mm for men.
4. Pain evaluation.
Healthy joints do not pop, click or hurt. If any of these conditions are present, or if other concerns are found during the exam, the patient may be referred for additional diagnostic x-rays, such as the I-CAT.
Dr. Sperbeck, West Los Angeles
As its name implies, periodontal review is examination of the health of your gums.
The first portion of the exam involves periodontal measurements which are readings, taken at the gumline with a hand probe, around each tooth. Measurements are taken millimeters. Healthy gums have a measurement of 0-3 mm and diseased gums are indicated by measurements of 4mm and greater.
Next we examine the gum tissue’s color and texture. Healthy gums are firm and do not bleed. Gum tissue responds rapidly to disease and when disease is present, they will change in color appearance and may begin to bleed.
We also check bone height. The bone supports the tooth and is very susceptible to bacterial infection and trauma from clenching and grinding.
Finally, we examine the esthetic component and look at how the gums line up in relationship to the smile line.
Dr. Sperbeck, West Los Angeles
Study models are plaster casts of teeth. After taking the impressions of the teeth, they are placed on an articulator (jaw simulator). This gives a three-dimensional orientation of how the patient’s mouth and bite look. They are used for diagnosis, esthetic evaluation, communication with other doctors, and treatment planning.
Dr. Sperbeck, West Los Angeles
This almost sounds like what I wanted for my birthday. The idea came from my daughter who is a prolific blogger. Her site is becoming more and more popular with people that share her interests. What a wonderful way to share information.
All day long I spend one on one time with patients and friends educating them about choices and their health. If I could multiply this effort and have more people benefit from this effort… So I decided on a blog. I will very happy to answer questions that help more than just the questioner. I will also relay anecdotal experiences from my patients that I believe will also be useful. All in all I think I will have fun and I hope you will enjoy.
Dr. Sperbeck, West Los Angeles
