Before a TMJ appointment, it can help to keep a short record of when your jaw symptoms occur, what you are doing when they start, how long they last, and whether anything makes them better or worse. This information can give your dentist a clearer picture of patterns that may not be obvious during a…
dr. darren greenhalgh
Can You Have Invisalign If You Already Have a Dental Crown?
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Dentistry, General Dentistry, Invisalign, Mill Creek Dentist
Yes, having a dental crown does not automatically prevent you from having Invisalign treatment. However, the crown, the tooth underneath it, your bite, and the way that tooth fits into the proposed movement all need to be evaluated before treatment begins. A dental crown becomes part of the overall Invisalign treatment plan rather than something…
Do You Need Dental X-Rays at Every Checkup?
Categories: CEREC, Cosmetic Dentistry, dental emergency, General Dentistry, SLEEP DENTISTRY, Teeth Whitening
No. You do not automatically need dental X-rays at every checkup. Your dentist determines whether imaging is needed based on your oral health, symptoms, risk of dental disease, previous images, and examination findings. The American Dental Association and American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology updated their patient-selection recommendations in 2026, emphasizing that imaging should…
What Happens During a New Patient Dental Exam?
A new patient dental exam usually includes a review of your health history, a discussion of your concerns, and an examination of your teeth, gums, bite, and other oral tissues. Dental X-rays may be recommended when they provide information needed for diagnosis or treatment planning. The visit establishes a starting point for your care. Before…
What Happens If You Haven’t Been to the Dentist in Years?
Categories: CEREC, Cosmetic Dentistry, dental emergency, Dental Implants, Dentistry, General Dentistry
If you have been putting off a dental appointment, you may be worried about what the dentist will find, how much treatment will cost, or feeling embarrassed about the time away. At Pacific Northwest Smiles, we want you to feel comfortable returning. Your first appointment gives us a chance to listen to your concerns, check…
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Check During a Dental Exam?
An oral cancer screening during a dental exam checks your mouth, tongue, lips, throat area, jaw, and neck for unusual tissue changes that may need a closer look. Your dentist may look for persistent sores, red or white patches, lumps, thickened tissue, or other changes that are different from surrounding areas. The examination is usually…