Dental Exams
A dental exam is a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, typically performed by a dentist or hygienist. The exam aims to:
- Identify oral health issues: Detect problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer.
- Assess risk factors: Evaluate factors that may contribute to oral health issues, such as diet, smoking, or genetics.
- Develop a treatment plan: Create a personalized plan to address any oral health concerns.
Components of a Dental Exam
- Visual examination: The dentist or hygienist will visually inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth.
- Radiographs (X-rays): X-rays may be taken to evaluate the health of your teeth and surrounding bone.
- Periodontal probing: The dentist or hygienist will use a probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums.
- Oral cancer screening: The dentist or hygienist will check for signs of oral cancer.
- Bite evaluation: The dentist or hygienist will evaluate how your teeth fit together.