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Dr.
Patrick Smith is a general practice dentist with offices
serving clients in Birmingham and the surrounding metro Detroit
communities. Dr. Smith's office was established in 1993. You can
call the number listed for an appointment or more information
during normal business hours.
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Preventing Problems
Before They Start
The health of your teeth
and mouth is very important to the well-being of your entire
body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is
necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting your
dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The
American Dental Association recommends that you visit your
dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and
your smile stays beautiful.
By routinely seeing your
dentist for exams and cleanings, you can:
- Prevent tooth decay,
gum disease, and bad breath
- Save money by avoiding
costly and extensive dental procedures
- Keep your teeth white
by reducing staining from food and drinks
- Shorten the time spent
in your dentist's office
- Have a smile that will
last a lifetime
The Exam
During your exam, Dr.
Smith will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of
tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. He may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening
beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Whether these X-rays
are traditional or digital, the images provided will help your
dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.
We will also review your general medical health and update
blood pressure readings.
Professional Cleanings
Your dental hygienist will
begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to
determine if you have any cavities and to examine the quality of
existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a
periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your
teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring.
Next, your hygienist will
carefully clean your teeth with a variety of tools to remove any
hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. Then your
hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing compound, and
apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren't painful, but if you
have any anxiety about your dental exam, be sure to let your
hygienist know. They may offer several sedation options to
ensure your comfort. If your dentist or hygienist finds tooth
decay or gum disease, they will talk to you about changing your
brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend
antibiotics or other dental treatments. If your teeth and gums
appear to be healthy, your dentist will probably recommend that
you continue your brushing and flossing routine as usual.
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