Elevated dental care for whole body wellness

Elevated dental care for whole body wellness

Dental Exams & Checkups · Family & General Dentistry

Dental exams that help you stay informed about your oral health.

A dental exam helps you understand the health of your teeth, gums and surrounding tissue. At our Terwillegar dental practice, we listen to your concerns, check for changes in your oral health and explain what we find. You’ll receive clear information to help you decide what care, if any, may be needed.

What is a dental exam?

A Closer Look at Your Teeth, Gums and Oral Health to Help You Understand Your Care and Make Informed Decisions

A dental exam helps identify tooth decay, gum disease and damaged restorations. Your dentist may also assess your bite, jaw movement and oral tissues while reviewing your medical history.

Why dental exams matter

Understanding Your Teeth
Gums and Mouth

Dental problems do not always cause pain when they first develop. A routine assessment allows your dentist to check areas that may be difficult to assess at home, identify changes since previous visits and discuss concerns before deciding whether treatment is necessary.

Identify Tooth Decay

Examine tooth surfaces and existing fillings for cavities, damage, or other changes that may require attention.

Assess Gum Health and Check for Early Concerns

Check for gum inflammation, bleeding, recession and other signs which may indicate periodontal health concerns.

Examine Oral Tissues

Review the tongue, cheeks, gums and other oral tissues for unusual changes that may need further dental review.

Review Existing Dental Work

Assess crowns, fillings, bridges and other restorations for wear, damage or changes in the condition.

What Happens During a Dental Exam?

Your Appointment, Explained Step by Step and What to Expect

A dental exam starts with your concerns, followed by an assessment of your oral health. We explain what we check and discuss our findings before recommending further care.

01 Review your history

Review prior dental treatments, medications, symptoms, and changes in your general health.

02Examine the Teeth and Gums

Check teeth, gums, oral tissues and existing restorations, with X-rays also considered if necessary.

03Discuss Your Exam Findings

Explain any signs of decay, gum concerns, damaged dental work or areas that may require close monitoring or attention.

04Review the Next Steps

Review treatment options, preventive recommendations or future dental examinations based on the findings and oral health needs.

Your dental exam schedule depends on your oral health and individual needs.

How often should you get dental exams now?

The Right Interval Depends on Your Dental Health

Many patients attend dental exams regularly but the appropriate frequency varies. Your dentist considers your cavity history, gum health, existing dental work and overall health when recommending your next appointment.

Past Decay

Past cavities, new areas of decay or other risk factors may influence how often examinations are recommended

Gum Disease

A history of gum disease, inflammation or bleeding may call for close monitoring and an assessment.

Existing Dental Work

Crowns, fillings, implants and other dental work may need regular checks.

Health and Habits

Certain medications, dry mouth, tobacco use and medical conditions may affect oral health needs.

Our Approach to Dental Exams

Understand Your Dental Health and Discuss the Care Options

People should understand what their dental examination involves and what the findings mean. We consider your history, questions and concerns before discussing treatment or future appointments.

Questions people are asking

Dental Exam FAQs Answered

Dental appointments can raise questions, particularly if you have not visited a dentist recently. These answers explain just what to expect and when extra assessment may be necessary.

Not necessarily. Dental X-rays depend on your oral health history, symptoms, age and exam findings. They can identify concerns not visible during an examination, including decay between teeth or changes beneath the gums. Your dentist will explain why X-rays may be useful before proceeding.

You can arrange an exam if it has been years since your last visit. Your dentist will review your history, discuss concerns and assess your oral health. If treatment is advised, you can ask about the findings, options and what should be addressed first.

Ready to Schedule Your Next Dental Exam?