Chapter 12: The Dental Examination

diagnosis

identification of disease based off the examination

Cavity Classifications: Class I

Decay is diagnosed in the pits and fissures of the occlusal surfaces of molars and premolars, buccal or lingual pits of molars, and lingual pits of maxillary incisors. Because most of this type of decay is confined to a small area, the dentist will choose to restore these surfaces with composite (tooth-colored) resins.

Cavity Classifications: Class II

Decay is diagnosed in the proximal (mesial or distal) surfaces of premolars and molars. Because this surface area is harder to detect visually, a radiograph is used to detect the decay. The design of the restoration will most commonly include the occlusal surface and may possibly involve more than two surfaces. The type of dental material used to restore this classificationis either silver amalgam (chosen for its strength) or newer composite (tooth-colored) resins designed for posterior teeth (chosen for esthetic appeal). If the tooth has extensive decay, the dentist may choose to crown the tooth with a gold or porcelain inlay, onlay, or crown.

Cavity Classifications: Class III

Decay is diagnosed in the proximal (mesial or distal) surfaces of incisors and canines. This decay is similar to that of Class 11, except it involves anterior teeth. It is easier for the dentist to access these surfaces with less tooth structure affected. The type of dental material used to restore this classification is composite (tooth-colored) resins (for esthetic appearance).

Cavity Classifications: Class IV

Decay is diagnosed in the proximal (mesial or distal) surfaces of incisors and canines. The difference between Class IV and Class Ill decay is that Class IV involves the incisaf edge or angle of the tooth. The type of dental material used to restore this classification is composite (tooth-colored) resins (for esthetic appearance). If the tooth has extensive decay, the dentist may choose to crown the tooth with a porcelain crown.

Cavity Classifications: Class V

Decay is diagnosed in the gingival third of facial or lingual surfaces of any tooth.This is also referred to as a smooth surface decay. The type of dental material used to restore this classification depends on which teeth are affected. If the de-cay occurs in posterior teeth, the dentist may choose silver amalgam; if anterior teeth are involved, composite (tooth-colored) resin will most likely be used.

Cavity Classifications: Class VI

Decay is diagnosed on the incisal edge of anterior teeth and the cusp tips of posterior teeth. Class VI decay is caused by abrasion (wear) and defects. The dental material is chosen based on which teeth are involved.

treatment plan

Once information has been gathered, recorded, and reviewed, the dentist will conclude with a diagnosis of the patient's dental conditions.

Then, a _______________ is presented and described to the patient by the dentist, according to the patient's needs, priorities, and financial resources.

Treatment Plan: Level I - Emergency Care

Relieves immediate discomfort, and provides relief to the patient

Treatment Plan: Level II - Standard Care

Relieves immediate discomfort and restores the teeth to normal function, which can include permanent restorations, root canal therapy, periodontal therapy, or fixed and removable prosthetics.

Treatment Plan: Level III - Optimum Care

Relieves immediate discomfort, and restores the teeth and surrounding tissue to maximum function and esthetic acceptability. This treatment level can include cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, implants, and reconstructive surgery.