West Maitland Dentistry Blog

The concern about COVID-19 has hit an all time high.  As we try to navigate back to our daily routines, visiting your dentist might be on your to do list.  Here at West Maitland Dentistry we are doing everything we can to minimize the spread of the disease and as always making sure we strictly adhere to the CDC/OHSA disinfection and sterilization guidelines.  Additionally we’ve implemented some more measures to ensure your dental visit is a healthy and safe one.

Some of the further precautions we are taking:

• Questionnaires: before you even enter the practice we are screening patients to see if they have any symptoms related to the virus or if they have been tested for the virus.
• Temperature checks for both patients and office staff.
• Minimizing aerosol producing procedures.  Meaning that in some cases we will use hand instruments, instead of a machine, to clean your teeth.
• The use of N95 respirators, surgical masks and face shields of staff for all procedures.
• Minimizing the amount of patients in the waiting room at one time.
• Removing sharable items such as magazines, coffee machine, water fridge and children’s toys/books.
• Sneeze guard for our front desk.
• UV light sanitization or one time use of pens/safety glasses.
• Requesting all patients use hand sanitizer when they enter our office.
• Requiring all patients were masks in the office until they are seated in the chair.

When should you reschedule your dental visit?

• Patients that are 65 and older: if you have medical concerns discuss with your physician whether it is safe for you to be seen..
• If you have any of the following symptoms: fever, sore throat, cough, GI issues or any other flu like symptoms.
• If you have been exposed to a person who has tested positive for COIVD-19, if you have tested positive within the last 10 days to COVID-19 or if you are awaiting test results.

What are some precautions you can take?

• Wear a mask upon entering and leaving the office.
• Use hand sanitizer when entering and leaving the office.
• Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and properly.
• If you do contract the virus change out your toothbrush!

We want to remind you that we are here for you and if you have any questions or concerns about your dental visit contact us!

You have probably heard it a million times; regular dental checkups are essential to a healthy smile. In this blog, we’re giving you the 411 on why our team at West Maitland Dentistry encourages regular dental exams for our patients like you.  We’re here to answer the most common questions patients have.

Why are dental exams important?

An exam is needed to provide the best care possible. Typically, dental exams are performed by your dentist alongside a dental cleaning. Regular brushing and flossing is not enough to protect your teeth. Even the more diligent flosser can be left with plaque and tartar buildup. The only way to remove this is with the help of a professional team like West Maitland Dentistry. A thorough examination by our dentist includes visually checking for any signs of decay, damage, and oral cancer. Addressing issues at early stages can help prevent costly and invasive procedures so be sure to schedule your dental exam today!

How many times do I need to have my teeth checked?

The ADA recommends that children and adults have dental exams regularly, usually every 6 months.  Based on your dental and medical history Dr. Dhaliwal will determine what your specific regular intervals are but for most patients, twice a year is recommended. Dentists are not only concerned with fixing teeth. They aim to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy and check for anything that may otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Skipping dental appointments may not seem like a big deal, but oral issues can develop and progress extremely quickly whether or not you notice it. By keeping on top of your dental cleanings and checkups you’re doing yourself a big favor in the long run.

What does Dr. Dhaliwal check for when performing dental exams?

When Dr. Dhaliwal looks inside the mouth some things she looks for are:

• Cavities
• Gum Disease
• Infections
• Oral Cancer
• Missing or defective fillings
• Cracks in teeth
• Teeth are coming in properly in children

A study performed by the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJO-DO) shows people with healthy smiles are perceived to be smarter than those with visible dental problems. Regular dental visits will not only help to keep your teeth and gums healthy but give you the confidence to show off your winning smile.

If you live or work in the greater Maitland, FL area, take that first step to great oral health by scheduling a dental appointment with West Maitland Dentistry!