DSI: Dental Scene Investigation
Like the detective work of the investigators on the CSI television series, attention to detail is the hallmark of a comprehensive dental evaluation. Much is learned during a conversation between you and Dr. Frank prior to the examination of your mouth. Dr. Frank wants to know about your past dental experiences, expectations, and concerns in order to help you best. Then comes a thorough oral examination.
This meticulous examination involves much more than your teeth. A thorough examination involves the head and neck muscles, jaw joints along with gum tissues and supporting bone. All of these areas hold clues that aid Dr. Frank in diagnosing current conditions and predicting future problems.
For example, some clues are specific head and neck muscles that are sore or asymmetrical in size, clicking and popping sounds occurring in your jaw joints, and recession or irregularities in your gum line. The teeth are like fingerprints. Dr. Frank detects a lot of information from wear patterns and sign of mobility. Dr. Frank uses x-rays and other imaging, photography, jaw measurements and and molds of your teeth to reenact what has happened, is happening and will likely happen to your dental health if left untreated.
The molds of your teeth are used to create models. On these models, Dr. Frank tries out possible dental treatments to see what will work best.
Like the CSI team, Dr. Frank and the dental staff combine their talents in collecting information. Sometimes the team is extended to include specialists, such as an orthodontist, endodontist, periodontist and oral surgeon. They, too, can aid Dr. Frank in making a proper diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment plan.
Dr. Frank communicates with these specialists and analyzes all the information to determine your treatment options and formulate a recommended course of treatment that will appropriately meet your needs.
Like the CSI team, Dr. Frank will not rush to judgment because a premature decision can result in poor long-term results and possible over-treatment. Dr. Frank must be methodical and consider all the possible dental factors in light of your personal circumstances and objectives so your dentistry is appropriate for you.
Pankey Oral Health Report