Comprehensive Examinations

A comprehensive exam is a full check of your teeth, gums, and the soft parts of your mouth. Your dentist also talks with you about your dental history and any concerns you have. X-rays are often used with the exam.*

*The cost of x-rays is separate from the cost of the examination.

There are two kinds of exam.

A full exam (comprehensive oral exam)

• When: at your first visit with a new dentist.
• Why: to learn how healthy your mouth is today.
• What we do: we look closely at your teeth, gums, jaw and bite. We check for signs of disease. We ask about any pain or worries. We may take x-rays or moulds of your teeth.
• What you get: a clear list of what we found, and a plan to fix it and keep your mouth healthy.

A check-up (periodic oral exam)

• When: about every six months, if your mouth is healthy.
• Why: to catch small problems early.
• What we do: we look at your teeth and gums for changes since your last visit. We clean your teeth and show you how to care for them at home. We take x-rays only if we need them.
• What you get: small problems fixed before they grow.

A dental consultation is a short visit about one topic. It is booked for a specific reason or worry. You and the dentist talk about one dental issue. Or you talk about a treatment plan you already have. Consultations are common for cosmetic dentistry.

They are also common for orthodontic (braces) cases. In a consultation, the dentist does not diagnose any conditions. The dentist only gives an opinion on what can be seen with the eye. In short, a consultation is a recommendation. An exam is a medical diagnosis.

The exam is what leads to your treatment plan. We are happy to explain which one fits you.

Generally, no. We know it can feel like extra steps, so here is why. Dentistry is health care. Treatment usually starts with a diagnosis, even a cleaning. Before a cleaning, a dentist generally checks your mouth to see how healthy it is. The dentist looks for problems that you cannot see or feel.

Then the dentist plans care that is safe and right for you. X-rays are taken when the dentist needs them for your diagnosis. This is usually based on your own mouth and history, and we will talk it over with you first. If you had x-rays taken lately at another office, we can ask for them.

That way they may not need to be repeated.

It depends on your mouth and your health. A comprehensive exam is usually done at your first visit with us. After that, many insurance plans cover one about every three years. In between, a shorter check-up exam at your regular visits keeps track of any changes. Your dentist may suggest a different timing, and will talk it over with you.

No, a comprehensive exam is generally painless. Some procedures, like X-rays or periodontal probing, may cause slight discomfort, but they are typically well-tolerated.

It helps to bring a list of any medications you take. Please tell your dentist about any medical conditions. Try to keep your mouth clean before your visit. If you can, fill out your new patient forms before you come in.

Each insurance plan is different. We suggest you check with your provider. Many plans do cover regular dental exams as part of preventive care. Ask us if you need help.