The First Appointment
For our new dental patients, all areas of your mouth will be thoroughly examined. This process will include a detailed examination of the teeth, soft tissue, supporting structure alignment, bite and more. A complete set of x-rays will be taken and models of your teeth will be made if necessary.
After your comprehensive examination, you will be ready for the preventive oral hygiene session. At this time, you will have access to the latest theories and techniques for controlling dental disease. Specific approaches will be recommended for your individual needs. For patients with good oral hygiene (ie: no gum disease) and with minor restorative needs, your teeth may also be cleaned by the dentist or by our licensed dental hygienist on the first visit. Otherwise, a separate appointment may be necessary to initiate treatment. Our team of professionals are dedicated to you receiving maximum longevity from your natural dentition. We consider this session to be one of the most valuable services we offer to our patients.
For patients with major dental need. After your preventative appointment, we will explain your dental evaluation and plan for treatment. Immediate needs as well as long-term objectives will be based on the goal of your receiving maximum life for your natural teeth.
To learn more about our practice or schedule an appointment please call (804) 755-8050 for our West End office, or (804) 658-5665 for our Richmond City office, email info@drbabik.com, or complete the form at the top or bottom of this page.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Bad breath is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene, but it can also be caused by retained food particles or gum disease. Proper brushing, including brushing the tongue, cheeks, and the roof of the mouth, will remove bacteria and food particles. Flossing removes accumulated bacteria, plaque, and food that may be trapped between teeth. Mouth rinse products are effective temporary relief of bad breath.
Bad breath may also occur in people who have a medical infection, gum disease, diabetes, kidney failure, or a liver malfunction. Xerostomia (dry mouth) and tobacco also contribute to this problem. Cancer patients who undergo radiation therapy may experience dry mouth. Even stress, dieting, snoring, age and hormonal changes can have an effect on your breath. An odor that comes from the back of your tongue may indicate post-nasal drip. This is mucous secretion, moving from the nose and down the throat, getting stuck on the tongue and causing odor. Bad breath originating from the stomach, however, is considered to be extremely rare.
Gum, mints, and mouthwashes are very temporary measures. In many cases, you can improve your breath by learning how to practice better oral hygiene habits (brushing, flossing, drinking plenty of water). But sometimes the cause is a more serious condition, such as an infection.
Developing Better Oral Hygiene Habits
Proper brushing of teeth, including brushing the tongue, cheeks, and the roof of the mouth, removes bacteria food particles. Clean your tongue with your toothbrush or a plastic tool that scrapes away bacteria.
Flossing removes accumulated bacteria, plaque, and food between teeth.
Schedule regular check-ups. Have your teeth cleaned at least twice a year, or how often your dentist recommends.
Regular check-ups with Dr. Babik will help detect any physical problems causing bad breath. Check-ups also help get rid of the plaque and bacteria that build up on your teeth. If you think that you suffer from bad breath, Dr. Babik can help determine its source. We may ask you to schedule a separate appointment to find the source of the odor. If Dr. Babik believes that the problem is caused by a systemic (internal) source, such as an infection, we may refer you to your family physician or a specialist to help remedy the cause of the problem.
He and the entire office are phenomenal. It is a family run business. He treats 3 generations of my family; kids, parents and grandparents. I highly recommend Dr. Babik and all clinicians at his practice.
HEATHER P.
3/27/2018
Dr Babik and his team is the BEST. Staff is very attentive and welcoming. Dr Babik makes sure his patients gets the best treatment. I had two extractions and two implants and i am very happy with the service. I highly recommend Dr Babik. He is great.
SARA S.
3/27/2018
Dr. Babik is a phenomenal dental professional. I chipped a tooth late Friday night and called his office and left a message about my dilemma and not only did he call me back but he and a staff met me in the office on a Saturday morning to repair my tooth so I could complete my speaking engagement on Sunday morning. His office staff especially his sister and brother enhance their office operations beyond the realms of greatness. Dr. Babik has an incredible chair side manner that puts the most anxious patient at ease.
GERALD G.
10/09/2017