New Patient Dental Exam: Why It’s Important for Long-Term Oral Health

New patient dental exams with Dr. James Durfey and the team at Aztec Family Dental Care play a crucial role in both your immediate and long-term oral health. Along with practicing excellent oral hygiene at home, new patient exams are an important foundational step toward overall better health and wellness. When you visit Dr. Durfey every six months for an exam, you can also prevent more costly dental problems and tooth loss down the road. 

Understanding New Patient Dental Exams

A new patient dental exam is much more than just a routine checkup. This exam is a comprehensive assessment of your current oral health. At your first appointment, Dr. Durfey and his oral care team will review your dental and medical history. Then, they will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and soft tissues using specialized tools and X-rays. A new patient dental exam will uncover any potential issues and give Dr. Durfey a baseline he can use to create a customized plan for your long-term oral care. 

The Role of Dental Exams in Preventative Care

With dental exams, a dentist can detect minor dental problems before they become urgent. Dr. Durfey can monitor changes in your teeth, gum health, and oral structure. This will help him and his team address issues like cavities, tooth decay, plaque buildup, and gum disease in the beginning stages so they are easier to treat. 

Benefits of Early Detection in Oral Health

The advantages offered by dental exams are countless, and include:

• Prevention of decay progression
• Reduced risk of gum disease
• Early oral cancer detection
• Save money on future dental costs
• Promotes overall health
• Improved confidence
• Minimizes the need for extensive procedures

Assessing Gum Disease: Why It Matters

Gum health is sometimes overlooked because most people’s first concern is their smile’s appearance. However, gum disease can cause serious problems with teeth and even physical health. Gum disease starts as gingivitis, which can be easily treated. However, if gingivitis is not treated, it can lead to more severe gum disease that can result in tooth mobility, tooth loss, and even bone loss. 

Early Identification of Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of tooth loss is decay. Fortunately, early detection can manage decay and stop it before it reaches the stage of potential loss of a tooth. Many cavities aren’t detectable with the naked eye, so Dr. Durfey’s team will do X-rays of your teeth to see if any decay is lurking underneath the surface. 

Oral Cancer Screenings: Why They’re Important

Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves survival rates. Oral cancer screening involves an examination of the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and all other soft tissues. It’s important to know that oral cancer can develop without symptoms, so screenings are essential. 

Dentist Accepting New Patients Near Me: Your Choice for a New Patient Dental Exam in Aztec, NM

When you’re searching for a new dentist in Aztec, New Mexico, you will appreciate the skill and experience of Dr. James Durfey and the team at Aztec Family Dental Care. Call our office today at (505) 390-1117 or use our online form to request an appointment. 

James Durfey, DDS
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Dr. James Durfey has over 17 years of experience as a general dentist and is trusted by his patients to provide comprehensive, personalized care. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) and holds a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University (BYU). Dr. Durfey is a reputable member of the American Dental Association and the Dental Co-Op and stays actively involved in the dental community. He is committed to offering high-quality, patient-focused care backed by his extensive expertise.

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