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Dental screenings are an essential yet often overlooked part of preventive care. At The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center in Arverne, Far Rockaway, and Jamaica, Queens, and another in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, the team of experts offers comprehensive care, including dental screenings. These exams help identify early signs of oral health issues so the team can connect you to solutions before problems become more serious. Schedule your dental screening by calling the nearest New York City office or booking one online today.
Dental Screenings Q & A
What are dental screenings?
Dental screenings check oral health, including your tongue, teeth, gums, and the overall condition of your mouth, to ensure there aren’t any concerning underlying issues.
While they don’t replace a full dental exam, these screenings are useful for identifying potential concerns early and fit neatly into the broader preventive health approach at the The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center.
What issues can dental screenings prevent or address?
Dental screenings can detect and prevent a wide range of oral and systemic health issues, such as:
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
- Oral infections
- Early signs of oral cancer
- Teeth grinding
- Dry mouth
- Poor oral hygiene habits
Oral health is also closely tied to your overall health. Gum disease, for example, has been associated with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic inflammation. By identifying these issues early, the team can reduce the risk of more complex health problems and your need for costly or invasive dental procedures later on.
What happens at a dental screening with a primary care provider?
When you come in for your dental screening, your provider discusses your oral hygiene habits, diet, and any symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, or bleeding gums. They may also review your medical history for certain conditions and medications that can impact oral health.
The physical part of the exam typically involves a visual inspection of your mouth using a light and tongue depressor. The team checks for redness, swelling, lesions, plaque buildup, and signs of decay or infection. They may also assess your gums for inflammation or recession and look for any unusual changes that could indicate more serious conditions.
If they have concerns, they’ll discuss next steps, which may include improving oral hygiene practices, recommending over-the-counter treatments, or referring you to a specialist for further evaluation.
The team also offers essential dental care, including fillings, root canal therapy, crowns, and full or partial dentures.
Dental screenings in a direct primary care setting offer a convenient, proactive way to monitor oral health as part of your regular care. Schedule your dental screening at The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center by calling the office or requesting an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.