Dental Exams

A dental exam starts with a full and thorough examination of intraoral and extraoral features. Starting with an examination of the TMJ joint, our comprehensive oral exam includes cancer screening, specifically amongst the lateral border of the tongue where 90% of oral cancers arise from. Full mouth probing is done to determine patients' gingival health, and which type of gum treatment would be required to bring the patient's gums into optimal health. With the help of full mouth x-rays, any decay, fracture, cracked tooth, missing teeth, or infection is diagnosed. Included in this examination is any and all existing dental treatment the patient has had previously. A prudent dentist would also notice any signs of habitual patterns which can lead to future dental concerns (grinding habits, drug abuse, high caries risk, secondary occlusal trauma). Another important aspect of the initial dental exam is to establish confidence and reduce anxiety for a dental patient. This conversation should be had with a patient sitting upright and a dentist at eye level with the patient. Never talk to a patient when they're laying down and never talk to a patient towering over them. Make sure you and the patient are at eye-level during this conversation. Chair-side manners, tone, and demeanor have to be at the correct balance to build and develop confidence and reassurance to the patient.

Regular dental exams are essential for everyone to maintain optimal oral health. You should schedule an exam when:

When to Consider Dental Exams

Why Choose Dental Exams?