Dental exams
What a dental checkup includes
According to the American Dental Association, a checkup covers your recent medical history, an exam of your mouth, a decision on whether you need X-rays, and an oral cancer screening, and depending on your treatment plan, the hygienist may also check your gums. Regular visits can help spot problems early, when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable.
What Happens During a Dental Exam
The ADA describes the exam in a few steps. The dentist or hygienist asks about your recent medical history and examines your mouth, and the hygienist may use special instruments to check your gums for gum disease.
The dentist then evaluates your overall dental health and does an oral cancer screening, holding your tongue with gauze, checking it and your whole mouth, and feeling your jaw and neck. A spot or sore in your mouth that does not look or feel right and is not going away is a reason to see a dentist sooner, according to the ADA.
A professional teeth cleaning removes tartar, which NIDCR says only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove.
What the Gum Measurements Mean
Gum measurements show how deep the space is between each tooth and the gum around it. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that a probe, a tiny ruler, measures these pockets, which are usually between 1 and 3 millimeters in a healthy mouth. Deeper pockets can be a sign of periodontal disease.
NIDCR also lists gums that are red, swollen or tender, gums that bleed easily, and gums that pull away from the teeth among the symptoms of gum disease. Our coordinated team includes Dr. Raffie Garabedian, a periodontist, and the practice offers periodontal care.
- 1 to 3 mm: the usual pocket depth in a healthy mouth, per NIDCR
- Deeper pockets: can be a sign of periodontal disease
X-rays and 3D Imaging
X-rays can reveal damage or disease not visible during an exam, such as new cavities or impacted teeth. The ADA says you may not need an X-ray at every visit, and how often they are taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease and any signs or symptoms.
We use digital X-rays, which typically use less radiation than traditional film. The images are clear within seconds, so Dr. Robert can show you what he sees and explain his recommendations.
For complex concerns and implant planning, the office has an in-house 3D cone-beam CT scanner, which gives a detailed view of the teeth, jawbone, sinuses and nearby nerves.
A First Exam With a New Dentist
If you are a new patient, the ADA notes that your dentist may recommend X-rays to see your current oral health and set a baseline for spotting changes later.
Recent X-rays from a previous dentist can help. According to the ADA, a new dentist may ask for copies instead of ordering new ones.
How Often to Get a Checkup
The ADA says some people need to visit the dentist once or twice a year, and others may need more visits. The CDC recommends a dental checkup at least once a year, or more often if your provider recommends it.
The CDC adds that gum disease can often become serious before a person notices any symptoms.
After the Exam
Patients tell us they appreciate that we explain their dental health and treatment options clearly, and that they feel listened to, never rushed or pressured. The practice emphasizes conservative treatment.
Some problems cannot wait for the next checkup. Same-day emergency appointments are often available. Call or text our office, and our team will make every effort to see you as quickly as possible.
Insurance and Payment
We accept most PPO dental plans. Because benefits and network participation vary by plan, our team will gladly verify your coverage before treatment. We also accept CareCredit and offer financial arrangements.
Common questions
Dental Exam Questions
What is a dental checkup?
The American Dental Association describes a checkup as a visit where your recent medical history is reviewed, your mouth is examined, the need for X-rays is decided, and the dentist does an oral cancer screening. Depending on your treatment plan, the hygienist may also check your gums.
What should I do before a dental checkup?
Let the office know about any changes in your overall health since your last visit. The ADA notes that many medical conditions can affect your dental health too.
Do I need a checkup if nothing hurts?
Yes. The ADA notes that you can have dental problems with no symptoms that only a dentist can diagnose, and the CDC notes that gum disease can become serious before people notice it.
Do I need X-rays at every exam?
Not always. The ADA says how often you need X-rays depends on your oral health, age, risk for disease and any symptoms, and that a new patient's dentist may recommend X-rays as a baseline.
How much does a dental exam cost?
Benefits vary by plan. We accept most PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your coverage before treatment.