Comprehensive Exams

When Should I Get an Oral Exam?

A comprehensive oral exam is recommended when you first become a patient at a new practice, and after that, it's recommended to have a comprehensive oral health exam done every 3-5 years by your dentist.

Some say the mouth is the window to the rest of the body, as many other illnesses often first present themselves within the mouth, so a thorough exam can help prevent and detect issues early.

What to Expect During a Dental Exam

During the examination, your provider may:

• Evaluate your overall health and oral hygiene
• Examine your teeth, gums, jaw, and bite
• Remove any stains or deposits on your teeth
• Demonstrate proper cleaning techniques for your teeth and/or dentures
• Assess your need for and administer fluoride treatment
• Take dental X-rays or, if necessary, perform other diagnostic procedures

Why are Dental Exams Important?

A comprehensive dental exam sets a baseline for your health and helps your provider detect early signs of oral health issues or conditions that may not otherwise be detected early on such as:

• Diabetes
• Leukemia
• Blood pressure issues
• Cardiovascular problems
• Oral cancer
• Immune abnormalities
• Sinus problems
• Advanced gum disease