At the office of Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, we take a proactive approach to oral health because prevention is the most reliable path to a long-lasting, comfortable smile. Regular oral exams allow us to catch small problems before they become complex, and they create a foundation for personalized care. During your visit, we combine a careful clinical inspection with patient education, professional cleaning when appropriate, and screenings for conditions such as oral cancer so you leave better informed and better protected.
The initial oral exam is an opportunity to learn about you and to document a clear starting point for future care. We begin by reviewing your medical and dental history to identify medications, past treatments, and any symptoms you might be experiencing. This context guides the remainder of the visit so we can tailor the exam to your specific needs and concerns.
Next comes a focused clinical evaluation: teeth, gums, tongue, cheek tissue, and the supporting bone are all inspected for signs of decay, inflammation, or abnormal lesions. We assess the gum pockets around teeth to evaluate periodontal health and observe occlusion (how your teeth come together). If there are signs of jaw discomfort or changes in bite, we evaluate TMJ function and look for evidence of bruxism (clenching or grinding).
Diagnostic imaging is recommended when needed to see structures below the surface—roots, bone levels, and areas between teeth where decay often begins. After the exam and any images are reviewed, we discuss our findings plainly and outline sensible options for treatment or preventive measures. Our goal is to make informed recommendations and to involve you in decisions about your oral health.
Oral health does not exist in isolation—what happens in the mouth can affect the rest of the body, and systemic conditions often show early signs in oral tissues. During an exam, we watch for symptoms that may indicate broader health issues, such as persistent gum inflammation, unusual oral lesions, or dry mouth that could be medication-related. Identifying these signs early can prompt patients to seek appropriate medical follow-up.
Research has tied chronic oral inflammation and infection to elevated risks for several systemic conditions. While a single exam cannot diagnose these diseases, routine dental evaluations help monitor risk and detect patterns that warrant attention. Common areas of concern include digestive disturbances, respiratory complications, cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and emerging links with neurodegenerative conditions.
It’s also important to remember that systemic illnesses can manifest in the mouth. Persistent bad breath, ulcerations, or changes in the mucosa may be related to underlying medical problems. When we identify unusual findings, we communicate them clearly and recommend appropriate referrals or further testing so you get the comprehensive care you need.
Keeping a healthy smile relies on both at-home habits and periodic professional care. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas; professional cleanings remove those deposits and reduce the bacterial load that leads to cavities and gum disease. Regular visits also let us reinforce homecare techniques and adjust them to fit your lifestyle and oral anatomy.
Checkup appointments are more than cleanings. They are an opportunity to monitor trends—changes in gum health, the progression of wear or decay, and the development of new concerns. For children, routine exams are a chance to guide healthy habits early, monitor jaw and tooth development, and determine if orthodontic evaluation is advisable. For adults, these visits help manage long-term stability and function.
We encourage patients to think of routine care as maintenance rather than intervention. Early detection keeps treatments conservative and recovery straightforward. During each visit, our team provides practical instruction and, when appropriate, personalized recommendations to support a strong, functional smile throughout every stage of life.
Many dental conditions develop beneath the visible surface. To detect these issues we use modern radiography and imaging tools that reveal the roots of teeth, the condition of the supporting bone, and the spaces between teeth that are not visible to the naked eye. These images are an essential complement to the visual exam and help us plan accurate, efficient care.
Digital radiography offers several clear advantages. Images are acquired quickly with minimal exposure to radiation, they can be enhanced on-screen for easier interpretation, and they are stored electronically in your chart for long-term tracking. These efficiencies make diagnosis faster and communication with patients and other providers smoother.
Because digital systems do not require developing chemicals and produce less waste, they are also more environmentally friendly. When imaging is recommended, we explain the purpose of each image and how it contributes to a thoughtful, conservative treatment plan that prioritizes your safety and comfort.
Different imaging techniques serve different diagnostic needs. Small, focused images—such as periapical films—show an entire tooth from crown to root and are helpful when evaluating infections, root integrity, or localized pain. Bitewing images capture the crowns of back teeth and are especially useful for finding decay between teeth.
Comprehensive sets such as a full mouth series combine bitewings and periapical views to give a complete picture of all teeth and surrounding bone. Panoramic films provide a broad, two-dimensional view of the upper and lower jaws, revealing developing teeth, impacted teeth, and overall jaw relationships. Cephalometric images give a side-profile view used primarily for orthodontic assessment and growth evaluation.
For more complex cases—surgical planning, implant placement, or detailed anatomic evaluation—we may recommend cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). CBCT produces three-dimensional images that allow precise measurement and visualization of bone volume, nerve pathways, and other vital structures. Using the appropriate image for the clinical question helps us plan with confidence and deliver predictable outcomes.
Whether you are here for a routine check or a specific concern, our team focuses on clear communication and careful documentation. At the office of Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, oral exams are conducted with thoroughness and respect for your comfort. If you’d like to learn more about what to expect during an oral exam or whether additional screenings are recommended for you, 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC.
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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC 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 Christopher R. Szydelko, DDS PC, 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.
An oral exam is a thorough clinical assessment of the teeth, gums, tongue, oral mucosa and supporting structures that helps detect early signs of disease and dysfunction. Regular exams let clinicians identify small problems—such as early decay, gum inflammation or abnormal lesions—before they become more complex. By combining visual inspection with patient history and risk assessment, an exam creates a baseline that guides future care decisions and preventive strategies.
Oral exams also provide an opportunity for education and personalized advice about home care, diet and habits that affect oral health. When exams are combined with appropriate imaging and screenings, clinicians can make informed recommendations tailored to each patient. This proactive approach supports long-term comfort, function and appearance of the smile.
Your first oral exam typically begins with a review of your medical and dental history to identify medications, prior treatments and any symptoms you are experiencing. The clinician then performs a focused clinical evaluation of teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks and soft tissues to look for decay, inflammation, lesions and other abnormalities. Periodontal assessment, bite evaluation and checks for signs of bruxism or jaw discomfort are commonly included.
When indicated, diagnostic images such as bitewings or periapical radiographs are acquired to evaluate areas not visible to the naked eye. After the exam and any imaging, the dentist or hygienist will review findings in plain language and outline sensible options for treatment or preventive care. This conversation helps you understand recommended next steps and allows you to participate in decisions about your oral health.
Most patients benefit from routine oral exams every six months, which allows clinicians to monitor changes and perform professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar in hard-to-reach areas. Frequency can vary based on individual risk factors such as history of periodontal disease, decay, systemic health conditions or tobacco use, and some patients may need more frequent monitoring. Your dental team will recommend an interval that balances prevention with your personal health profile.
Adhering to scheduled exams helps keep treatments conservative by catching issues early and reduces the likelihood of more invasive procedures later. Regular visits also provide consistent opportunities to reinforce homecare techniques and adjust care plans as your needs change. A personalized recall schedule supports the long-term stability and function of your smile.
Oral cancer screening is a routine component of comprehensive oral exams and involves a visual and tactile inspection of the entire oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, floor of mouth, cheeks and oropharynx. Clinicians look for persistent ulcers, white or red patches, unusual lumps or other changes that could indicate dysplasia or malignancy. When suspicious findings are identified, the team documents them clearly and recommends prompt follow-up or referral for definitive evaluation.
Adjunctive technologies, such as specialized light systems, may be used to enhance visualization of abnormal tissue, but they do not replace clinical judgment or biopsy when needed. Early detection of oral cancer dramatically improves treatment options and outcomes, so regular screenings are an important preventive measure for all adult patients. If anything unusual is found, the practice will explain next steps and coordinate care to ensure appropriate evaluation.
Digital x-rays and advanced imaging are important complements to the visual exam because many dental problems begin beneath the surface—between teeth, within roots or in the supporting bone. Digital radiography provides high-resolution images with minimal radiation exposure, allows on-screen enhancement for easier interpretation and supports long-term tracking in your chart. These images help clinicians detect decay, evaluate bone levels, assess root anatomy and plan restorative or surgical treatment precisely.
For complex diagnostic questions or surgical planning, three-dimensional imaging such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) may be recommended to visualize bone volume, nerve pathways and other vital structures. Using the appropriate imaging modality for the clinical concern improves diagnostic confidence and treatment predictability. The dental team will always explain the purpose of recommended images and how they contribute to a safe, conservative care plan.
The mouth is a window to systemic health, and routine oral exams can reveal signs that suggest broader medical issues, such as persistent gum inflammation, unusual oral lesions or dry mouth that may be medication-related. Research has shown associations between chronic oral infection and systemic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, so identifying oral inflammation early can prompt patients to pursue appropriate medical follow-up. While an exam cannot diagnose systemic disease, it plays a valuable role in overall health monitoring and interdisciplinary care.
When clinicians observe findings that may indicate systemic involvement, they communicate those observations clearly and recommend timely consultation with medical providers when appropriate. Maintaining open communication between dental and medical teams supports coordinated care and better health outcomes. Regular dental visits therefore contribute to both oral wellness and broader health vigilance.
Pediatric oral exams are tailored to a child’s developmental stage and focus on early detection of decay, guidance for eruption patterns and counseling about habits that affect oral growth. The appointment typically includes a gentle clinical exam, assessment of jaw and tooth development, and age-appropriate education on brushing, diet and injury prevention. For very young children, the visit may emphasize acclimation to the dental environment to build comfort and trust.
During pediatric exams, clinicians also evaluate whether early orthodontic evaluation might be beneficial and check for signs of thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting or other behaviors that influence dental alignment. Fluoride and sealant recommendations are discussed based on risk, and parents receive clear, practical instructions to support daily care at home. Routine pediatric exams help establish healthy habits and detect issues while they can be managed conservatively.
Preparing for an oral exam is straightforward: bring an up-to-date list of medications, any recent medical changes and a summary of dental history or concerns you want to discuss. Avoid eating immediately before the appointment if possible so the clinician can assess breath and oral tissues more clearly, and bring questions about symptoms, cosmetic goals or previous treatments. If you have dental records or recent x-rays from another provider, bringing them can streamline diagnosis and planning.
Be ready to describe any pain, sensitivity, bleeding or changes in bite, and mention lifestyle factors such as tobacco use or sleep-disordered breathing that may affect oral health. Honest communication about homecare habits and medical history helps the dental team tailor the exam and recommendations to your needs. Arriving a few minutes early to complete any required forms ensures the appointment proceeds efficiently.
If the clinician identifies a condition that requires treatment, you will receive a clear explanation of the finding and the range of appropriate options, including conservative alternatives and the reasons one approach may be preferred. The dental team will prioritize safety, function and long-term stability when proposing next steps, and they will outline what to expect from each procedure in terms of process and recovery. When specialty care or diagnostic follow-up is warranted, the practice will coordinate referrals or collaborate with other providers as needed.
Follow-up planning often includes scheduling timely appointments, arranging any necessary imaging and providing supportive instructions for home care before and after treatment. The team documents findings and recommendations in your chart so progress can be tracked at subsequent visits. This structured approach helps ensure continuity of care and supports predictable, evidence-based outcomes for your oral health.
Routine professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that accumulate in areas difficult to reach with home care, lowering bacterial load and reducing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Oral exams and cleanings together form a maintenance system: exams detect trends and emerging problems while cleanings address the mechanical contributors to disease. During visits, the team also reinforces homecare techniques and makes personalized recommendations based on your oral anatomy and risk profile.
Daily brushing, flossing and appropriate use of adjuncts such as interdental cleaners or rinses work in tandem with professional care to preserve oral health between visits. Consistent home habits keep treatments conservative and improve long-term outcomes for both function and appearance. By treating preventive care as ongoing maintenance rather than episodic intervention, patients benefit from fewer complications and more predictable dental health.
