At Paparian Dental Associates, we take a forward-thinking approach to oral health: regular, focused examinations are the best way to prevent small problems from becoming more complex. Visiting the dentist on a consistent schedule allows our clinicians to track changes, address emerging concerns, and reinforce practical strategies for home care. Our preventive services include thorough oral exams, professional cleanings, oral cancer screenings, and clear guidance on hygiene and lifestyle choices that affect long-term dental health.
Your first comprehensive exam establishes a baseline for future care and gives us the context we need to personalize treatment. We start by reviewing your medical and dental histories and listening closely to any concerns you bring—sensitivity, bite issues, or cosmetic goals all matter. This intake sets the stage for a targeted clinical assessment tailored to your situation.
The clinical portion includes an inspection of your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the supporting bone and soft tissues. We assess periodontal health, check for signs of tooth wear or damage from clenching and grinding, and evaluate how your bite (occlusion) and temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are functioning. Where appropriate, we recommend diagnostic images to get a clearer picture beneath the surface.
Every step of the exam is designed to clarify what, if any, treatment is necessary and to prioritize minimally invasive options when possible. After the exam, we review findings with you in plain language, outline recommended next steps, and make sure you understand the goals and timing of any suggested care.
An oral exam does more than look for cavities — it helps us identify signs that may relate to broader health issues. Conditions such as dry mouth, unexplained gum inflammation, or unusual oral lesions can point to systemic problems, medication side effects, or nutritional deficiencies. A careful exam helps connect the dots between oral symptoms and general wellness.
Research increasingly shows links between oral disease and systemic conditions. Chronic gum inflammation, for example, is one indicator clinicians monitor because it can influence or reflect issues elsewhere in the body. During routine exams we screen for potential early warning signs and document changes over time so that any patterns are identified promptly.
When we detect findings that suggest a medical correlation, we discuss them with you and recommend appropriate pathways — whether that means closer dental monitoring, additional diagnostics, or collaboration with your primary care provider. Our goal is to ensure your oral health supports, rather than undermines, your overall well-being.
Digestive system concerns that can be influenced by tooth loss or altered chewing function
Respiratory considerations linked to bacterial aspiration from untreated oral infection
Connections between chronic oral inflammation and cardiovascular health
Risk factors that may raise the chance of stroke when oral disease is present
How changes in blood sugar management are often reflected in gum health for people with diabetes
Emerging evidence tying oral health status to cognitive conditions in later life
Routine cleanings and preventive exams are the foundation of long-term oral health. Professional hygiene visits remove plaque and tartar from areas that are difficult to reach at home, lowering the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Those visits also reset the starting point for daily care, making it easier for you to maintain results between appointments.
Education is a core part of preventive visits. Our hygienists and clinicians demonstrate effective brushing and flossing techniques, suggest tools that fit your needs, and offer practical advice on diet and habits that support a healthy mouth. Small changes in routine can have outsized benefits over time, and we focus on achievable strategies that integrate into daily life.
We also provide age-appropriate guidance for growing smiles. For children, early exams are essential to monitor development, prevent decay, and establish positive habits. For adults, periodic assessments help detect wear patterns, screen for signs of sleep-disordered breathing, and determine whether orthodontic or restorative options should be considered as part of a long-term plan.
By combining tailored preventive care with clear communication, we help patients of every age keep their mouths healthy and functional while minimizing the need for more extensive procedures later on.
Visual inspection is indispensable, but radiographs provide the deeper view needed to detect hidden issues. X-rays reveal decay between teeth, the status of roots and bone, the position of unerupted or impacted teeth, and the presence of infections or cysts. They also help evaluate bone levels for periodontal assessment and treatment planning.
Modern digital imaging has made diagnostic x-rays faster, more precise, and more convenient. Digital radiographs produce high-resolution images that can be viewed instantly, adjusted for clarity, and archived in a patient's record. The improved workflow helps clinicians make informed decisions quickly while minimizing radiation exposure.
When imaging is recommended, we explain the reason and the type of image that will be taken so you understand how it informs diagnosis and treatment. Our use of up-to-date radiographic technology supports safer, more accurate care and better communication about clinical findings.
Quicker image capture with reduced radiation exposure compared with older film methods
Immediate image review for on-the-spot assessment and treatment planning
Easy electronic storage and sharing for coordinated care with specialists or other providers
Environmentally friendlier workflow without developing chemicals
Images integrated into the patient file for simple comparison over time
The specific images we recommend depend on your symptoms and the clinical questions we need to answer. A targeted periapical film can assess a single tooth and its root, while bitewing images are ideal for checking interproximal decay and the fit of existing restorations. A full mouth series gives a comprehensive view when a complete baseline is required.
Periapical x-ray - Focuses on an individual tooth from crown to root to evaluate root health and surrounding bone.
Bitewing x-ray - Captures the crowns of posterior teeth to identify decay between teeth and assess marginal bone height.
Full Mouth Series - A combination of periapical and bitewing images that documents the status of all teeth and surrounding structures.
Panoramic Film (panorex) - Provides a broad two-dimensional overview of both arches, the jaws, and developing or impacted teeth.
Cephalometric Film - A profile view used mainly in orthodontic evaluation to assess facial and jaw relationships.
For more complex diagnostic or planning needs, three-dimensional imaging with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can be an invaluable tool. CBCT allows the clinician to view detailed cross-sectional anatomy, which is particularly helpful for surgical planning, evaluating sinus relationships, and precisely placing dental implants. When 3D imaging is indicated, we discuss the benefits and how it contributes to safer, more predictable care.
Consistent, thorough oral exams combined with judicious use of diagnostics form the backbone of preventive dentistry. If you have questions about what to expect during an exam or would like to learn how regular checkups can protect your long-term oral health, please contact us for more information.
Yes. We always welcome new patients and their families for care. Feel free to give us a call or reach out to us online to schedule a first visit or for any additional information on our office. We look forward to hearing from you!
Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings help ensure your smile remains in tip-top condition and that any developing problems receive the prompt care they require. While it's a good idea to schedule a checkup and cleaning twice a year, longer or shorter intervals between routine visits depend on your specific needs.
We understand that life gets complicated and busy, and for various reasons, you haven't been able to get to the dentist for care. Don't worry; it's always a good time to get back in touch with the health of your smile.
At Paparian Dental Associates, we offer skilled and compassionate care to address a wide range of dental needs. Whether you need a simple checkup and cleaning, restorations, periodontal treatment, root canal therapy, or the replacement of missing teeth to get your smile back into shape, we provide precise, gentle, stress-free treatment to give you a smile that is as beautiful as it is healthy.
Give us a call today; we're happy to address all your questions and concerns about getting your smile back in tip-top condition.
For pregnant women, practicing good oral care and seeing the dentist to maintain a healthy smile is considered an important component of prenatal care. Researchers have found that pregnancy not only increases the risk of oral health problems, but these problems may also lead to pregnancy complications. At the office of Paparian Dental Associates, we provide the skilled and compassionate care required to help expectant mothers keep their teeth and gums in tip-top condition. While certain procedures are not recommended during pregnancy, we provide the necessary care and take all the necessary precautions required.
Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, teeth that have been affected by a range of imperfections or that have sustained damage from trauma or dental decay can be restored to produce a naturally beautiful looking and functional smile.
As skilled and experienced providers of care, our office can effectively improve and enhance the appearance of teeth that are stained, discolored, misshapen, chipped, fractured, gapped, crowded, or broken down due to dental decay. At the office of Paparian Dental Associates, we offer a comprehensive selection of the leading-edge cosmetic solutions from teeth whitening procedures, dental bonding, tooth-colored fillings, and veneers, to prosthetic solutions and dental implants to rebuild complete and beautiful smiles.
Contact our office to learn more about the many ways we can help you create the smile you've always wanted.
If you're visiting Paparian Dental Associates for the first time, it is helpful that you contact your former dental office and have your records sent over to us. Make note of any problems you may have so that you can discuss them with your dentist.
To provide efficient service, we ask you to please bring your insurance card, an ID, plus any referral slips or diagnostic records given to you by another office. If you are taking medications, please note or make a list of what they are as you will need to provide that information.
Yes! We assure you that both you and your family will be in good hands at the office of Paparian Dental Associates.
We do our best to make sure every patient who steps into our office for care is put at ease. We provide precise and gentle care and our skilled, compassionate team strives to make every visit stress-free. You can rest assured that your smile is in the best of hands and that we are doing all we can to ensure your comfort throughout every procedure. While we always take the time to explain every step in care, feel free to ask us any questions about local anesthesia and methods of dental sedation.
At the office of Paparian Dental Associates, we strive to provide the highest quality of care to address all your dental needs. Once we've had the opportunity to examine your smile, we can give you a clear picture of any dental issues that are present, along with a quote for what the cost of treatment will be. The cost of care all depends upon the extent and complexity of issues affecting the health or appearance of your smile and the types of procedures that are required. Our goal is to make dental care more affordable so that you can begin treatment without any additional stress or delay.
Keep in mind that with routine dental checkups and periodic care, we can help prevent dental disease while treating emerging problems early in their onset to avoid larger issues and more expensive care down the road.
Routine dental checkups and preventive care procedures may be covered under your dental insurance plan requiring little to no out-of-pocket expense. We invite you to check our financial information page or give us a call to find out if our office participates with your plan, and if you have any other questions about dental insurance, dental savings plans, forms of payment, or financing options. We welcome your inquiries and do our best to help you begin care without additional stress or delay.
If you've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, gum disease, or any other reason, we recommend dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.
Absolutely! Both flossing and brushing regularly are equally important to maintain your oral health. While brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, flossing cleans in between them. Flossing is important to prevent plaque buildup, which can cause gums to recede and lead to periodontal disease.
Even if you have dentures, it is still necessary to see a dentist! Dental checkups help ensure that your dentures are comfortable, fitting properly, and that there are no other problems. Beyond assessing your dentures, our dentist will also perform a thorough examination of the jawbone, and surrounding soft tissues both inside the mouth, the face, and neck, to confirm that you remain in good oral health.
Emergency dental care is a service we hope you'll never need- but if you do, the office of Paparian Dental Associates is here for you!
Whether you're suffering from a chipped tooth, toothache, or any problem affecting your oral health, you can be sure to get the prompt attention and compassionate care you require at our office. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities, and we offer a comprehensive range of the most advanced services to address a broad spectrum of dental needs.
While the pain of a toothache is one of the more common reasons that patients come to our office for emergency dental care, we also promptly treat emergencies that are not necessarily painful like crowns that have been dislodged and broken dentures that leave embarrassing gaps in one's smile.
You can rest assured that your oral health is in the best of hands at our office. We'll quickly determine exactly what's wrong, explain your treatment options, and then provide the precise and gentle care you require to alleviate your discomfort and get you back on the path to oral health and wellness.
Your health and comfort are our top priorities. If your dental emergency is painful, if it affects the appearance of your smile, or if you suspect that an infection is present, our office will make every effort to see you as soon as possible for care.
At the office of Paparian Dental Associates, we welcome patients of all ages for care and offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help every member of your family maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. Whether you or a loved one needs a routine checkup and cleaning, fillings, same-day crowns, a cosmetic smile makeover, the replacement of missing teeth or require the services of a skilled and compassionate emergency dentist, you can rely on our office for the highest quality care.
For more information on our office and the many services we provide, or to schedule an appointment for care, give us a call today.
During an oral exam the clinician reviews your medical and dental history and asks about any current concerns such as sensitivity, bleeding or changes in bite. The clinical assessment includes a visual and tactile inspection of teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks and the other soft tissues as well as an evaluation of jaw movement and the temporomandibular joints. Findings are documented and used to determine whether diagnostic imaging or additional testing is needed.
After the examination the clinician discusses results in plain language and outlines recommended next steps, prioritizing conservative options when appropriate. The visit typically concludes with tailored home-care guidance and a plan for follow-up or preventive care to maintain oral health. This approach helps resolve minor issues early and supports long-term function and comfort.
Many patients follow a six-month interval for routine exams because it balances preventive care with early detection for common problems like decay and gum disease. However, the ideal frequency is individualized based on risk factors such as periodontal disease, systemic conditions, medications that cause dry mouth, tobacco use or a history of frequent cavities. Your clinician will recommend a personalized recall schedule that reflects your oral health needs.
Patients with active periodontal disease, complex restorative work or certain medical issues may need more frequent visits for monitoring and professional hygiene. Conversely, low-risk patients with excellent home care and stable findings may be seen at longer intervals. Regular reassessment ensures the schedule remains appropriate as circumstances change.
An oral cancer screening is a targeted portion of the exam that involves visual inspection and palpation of the oral cavity, lips, tongue, floor of mouth, throat and neck to detect unusual patches, sores or lumps. The clinician looks for lesions that do not resolve within a short time, changes in tissue texture or areas of unexplained bleeding and documents any suspicious findings. Screening is performed for patients of all ages and is especially important for those with risk factors such as tobacco or heavy alcohol use.
If a suspicious lesion is found the clinician explains the concern, records its appearance and size, and determines an appropriate next step which may include short-term monitoring, a biopsy or referral to a specialist. Early detection greatly improves treatment options and outcomes, so prompt evaluation of persistent oral sores or changes is essential. Regular screenings at routine exams help catch abnormalities before they progress.
Radiographs are recommended based on your clinical examination and diagnostic needs; they reveal conditions not visible to the eye such as decay between teeth, root problems, bone levels and the presence of pathology. Modern digital X-rays produce high-resolution images with lower radiation exposure compared with older film methods and allow immediate review and storage in your chart. The decision to image is individualized and balances diagnostic benefit with minimal exposure.
Common types of images include bitewing films for interproximal decay and periapical views to assess individual roots, while panoramic or three-dimensional CBCT imaging is reserved for more complex evaluations such as implant planning or assessing impacted teeth. When imaging is recommended the clinician explains why a particular view is helpful and how it informs diagnosis and treatment planning. Images are also useful for comparing changes over time during routine follow-up.
An oral exam provides information that can reflect and influence general health because the mouth often shows early signs of systemic conditions. Issues such as chronic gum inflammation, oral infections, unexplained lesions or persistent dry mouth can be linked to diabetes, cardiovascular concerns, respiratory risks and medication effects. Clinicians use exam findings to identify potential medical correlations and to recommend appropriate medical follow-up when indicated.
When signs suggest broader health implications the dental team may communicate with your primary care provider or advise additional testing to ensure coordinated care. Monitoring oral health over time can help detect patterns that warrant collaboration with other health professionals. This integrated approach supports both oral wellness and overall well-being.
Prepare for an oral exam by bringing an up-to-date list of medications, any recent medical history changes and a note of specific symptoms or questions you want to address. Maintain your normal oral hygiene routine before the appointment so the clinician can accurately assess your baseline condition, and arrive with information about past dental treatment or recent X-rays if available. Clear communication about medical conditions, allergies and pregnancy status helps ensure safe, informed care.
There is generally no need to fast or make special preparations unless you have been given specific instructions for a planned procedure. If you experience acute symptoms such as swelling, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain, contact the office promptly as these may require same-day attention. Preparing documentation and a concise list of concerns helps make the visit efficient and productive.
Post-exam recommendations often include a tailored plan of preventive measures such as professional hygiene visits, targeted home-care techniques and, when appropriate, topical fluoride or sealants for added protection. The clinician and hygienist demonstrate brushing and flossing methods suited to your anatomy and restorations and may suggest specific products or adjuncts like interdental cleaners. Small, consistent changes in routine can significantly reduce risk over time.
For patients with early signs of gum disease or other risk factors, additional interventions and a shortened recall interval may be advised to halt progression. The goal is to minimize the need for invasive treatment by combining effective in-office care with achievable at-home habits. Clear documentation and periodic reassessment ensure the prevention plan remains effective.
Exams for younger patients emphasize growth, development and the prevention of decay, with clinicians monitoring eruption patterns, jaw development and habits that influence oral health. Preventive services may include education for parents, fluoride applications and dental sealants to protect permanent molars as they come in. Early visits also help identify orthodontic concerns and establish a positive attitude toward routine dental care.
As children progress into adolescence the focus expands to include the effects of dietary habits, sports-related risks and the potential for wisdom tooth issues. Clinicians work with families to develop age-appropriate home care routines and to coordinate interceptive treatments when needed. Regular monitoring during key developmental stages supports healthy dentition into adulthood.
You should contact the office if you experience persistent pain, swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, a loose tooth or a sore that does not heal within two weeks, as these symptoms can indicate infection or other urgent issues. Other reasons to seek earlier evaluation include sudden changes in bite, a broken restoration, trauma to the mouth or signs of a spreading infection such as fever. Prompt assessment helps prevent complications and can often simplify treatment.
If you have systemic symptoms that may relate to oral health, such as unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue combined with oral changes, mention these during triage so the team can prioritize appropriate evaluation and referrals. The dental office can advise whether same-day care is recommended and coordinate with medical providers when necessary. Early communication ensures timely and effective management.
Paparian Dental Associates maintains digital records and diagnostic images to document findings and to compare changes from visit to visit, which supports accurate monitoring and evidence-based decision making. Digital radiographs and intraoral images are archived in the patient file so clinicians can review past conditions, assess treatment outcomes and detect subtle trends such as bone loss or recurring decay. This longitudinal view improves the precision of treatment planning.
When more advanced imaging such as CBCT is indicated the team explains how the additional detail informs surgical or restorative planning and helps reduce uncertainty in complex cases. Records are also used to coordinate care with specialists and to communicate clearly about recommended steps and expected timelines. Consistent documentation enhances safety, predictability and patient education throughout ongoing care.
Our mission is simple: to deliver great oral health and the beautiful smile you deserve. We value your trust and are committed to exceeding your expectations with every solution we provide.
