First Visit Expectations
Your first visit to C. Farrell Fruge’, Jr., DDS establishes a vital foundation for our relationship with you. During the first visit, we make sure to obtain important background information, like your medical history, and give you time to get to know your doctor. To understand what to expect for your first visit to our practice, please read through this page. You’ll find all the practical information you need, such as a map and directions to our office, practice hours, payment policies and more. There’s also background information about our committed staff and our first visit procedures. You can even save some time at your first visit by printing out and completing the patient forms in advance of your appointment.
Mission Statement
- Our Staff is dedicated to providing quality care and treatment.
- Keeping patients informed and educated is a priority.
- We strive to provide treatment in a timely manner with the highest integrity.
The Comprehensive Dental Evaluation
A thorough review of the medical history of each patient is done to discover any signs and symptoms of disease, as well as specific medical conditions that may compromise dental treatment.
The soft tissues of the mouth are evaluated regarding oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease. Oral cancer is not one of the more prevalent cancers diagnosed today, however, it can be fatal if present, due to mouth’s close proximity to the lymphatic system. Amazingly, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are found each year. All of the soft tissues in the oral cavity area are examined to make sure no abnormalities or growths exist. An examination of the periodontal (gum) tissue is a critical part of a thorough clinical evaluation for all adults. Detection of periodontal disease early on can prevent the loss of teeth caused by bone deterioration. The early stages of gum disease can usually be treated non-surgically, and in many cases when detected early can prevent unnecessary and extensive surgery, and the need to be treated by a specialist. For patients with an advanced problem, surgery most likely will be recommended to gain control of the disease process as soon as possible.
Visual evaluation of the hard tissues begins with the teeth themselves. All existing restorations (fillings and crowns) are examined to see if there is a breakdown or decay present. Early detection and treatment of these problems can prevent painful episodes for the patient and increased cost of treatment. The occlusion (also known as the bite) is also evaluated since malocclusion (abnormal bite) can cause teeth to break, abnormal wear on existing restorations, and problems with the jaw joints themselves.
The hard tissues of the mouth are evaluated using dental x-rays. These exposed areas cannot be seen with the naked eye. Decay, bone loss, cysts, and impacted or missing teeth are some of the problems detected by x-rays. X-rays allow us to see under fillings and between teeth in areas impossible to examine thoroughly otherwise.
For patients concerned perhaps, –about the danger of dental x-rays, we use the lowest levels of radiation of all health care professions. Our equipment is closely monitored and checked routinely. Dental x-rays are considered very safe.
Several years ago our practice incorporated one of the latest technologies to enhance diagnosis and care — the intra-oral camera system. This system allows the patients to actually see in full color the condition of their teeth and gums magnified up to 30 times on a television screen. The use of intra-oral camera system provides Dr. Fruge’ precise information in diagnosing dental problems. Our patients can see everything as well. Being able to see, we feel helps our patients to fully understand their needs, and enables them to make good informed decisions. The cameras magnify what Dr. Fruge’ sees, helping him detect broken fillings, cracked or split teeth, and deteriorated edges on old restorations at a much earlier stage. This wonderful tool allows us the opportunity to help you prevent advanced problems, and can save you needless additional treatment and expense.
A thorough examination benefits you. You are able to see and understand all the information about your dental condition from the beginning, giving you the opportunity to make good, informed decisions concerning your dental health. We want our patients to have a complete understanding about any care we provide. Please feel free to ask us questions relevant to your treatment at any time. You are important to our practice and we are all here to serve you.
