Dr. Wells is committed to helping you achieve proper overall health. Oral health means much more than not having any cavities. First you will be asked to complete a health history form. There are many things about your health that may not seem related to your teeth but could be very important. For example, certain heart conditions require you to take antibiotics prior to your dental appointment to prevent a potentially serious infection. Please list all current medications you are taking on the form so that we don't prescribe anything that could have a negative reaction. Once you are seated in our treatment room, we will ask about your dental history as well as if you have any concerns or problems of your teeth. This will help us determine the type of x-rays and how many we will need to take. If you have current x- rays from your previous dentist, we will need these at your first appointment or we will need to take new ones. Bitewings are considered current if they are less than one year old. A full mouth series is considered current if it is less than three years old. The doctor may recommend x-rays more frequently depending on your oral health needs. We must also have current x-rays in order to do a comprehensive exam. After your x-rays are taken Donna or Christy will do a periodontal charting. This is measuring the pocket depth of your gums. This is done to evaluate the overall health of your gums. Healthy gums measure between 1 and 3 mm. In periodontal disease the measurements increase, indicating that your gums and bone level may be reacting to an infection. The measurements help us determine the type of cleaning that will be necessary. Next, we will take pictures of your teeth using our intraoral camera. This allows you to see exactly what we see. This also helps us point out if there are any areas that need extra attention. Donna or Christy may now begin your cleaning. They will educate you on proper homecare as well as give suggestions on how to improve your overall oral health. Now Dr. Wells will do a comprehensive exam. This will include reviewing the x-rays and an intraoral examination for bone loss and/or cavities. Dr. Wells will discuss his treatment recommendations as well as point out any areas that may be future areas of concern. He will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your dental health as well as your future treatment. Our financial coordinator will review the financial aspects of your treatment plan. She can also assist you in financial arrangements. Please keep in mind that your treatment plan may change as we progress; some problems may turn out to be more or less extensive than we originally estimated. The treatment plan will serve as our outline for achieving your oral health.
James A. Wells D.D.S.
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