What Happens at a Full Dental Exam?

Dental Cleaning And Examinations Sunnyvale, TX

A full dental exam is a common dental visit that involves an extensive review of the patient’s oral health to detect any issues (or the potential onset of issues) as early as possible. This helps prevent any problems by allowing the dentist to treat any concerns in the earliest stages possible, which can save the patient time, money, and the need for more invasive treatment.

What to expect during a full dental exam

Every full dental exam may be slightly different based on the patient’s situation. However, most full dental exam services include dental X-rays, an oral examination, a check for signs of oral cancer, and a teeth cleaning and polishing. The following is an in-depth look at each step of the full dental exam process.

Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays are recommended once every one to three years, depending on the patient’s age and the status of their health. However, dental X-rays are often a part of a full dental exam. This is particularly the case if it is the patient’s first visit with a certain dentist. The dental X-rays reveal more information that an oral examination alone cannot reveal, such as bone loss in the jaw, impacted teeth, etc. 

Oral examination

An oral examination is used along with dental X-rays to determine if there are any oral health concerns that need to be treated. Among other possible concerns, the dentist checks for weakened enamel, dental cavities, signs of bruxism, broken teeth and deep gum pockets, and gum erosion.

Check for signs of oral cancer

Dentists typically check for signs of oral cancer during a full dental exam. In addition to the routine oral examination, they may check all areas of the face, neck, checks, etc. If any issues are detected, then they can recommend a full oral cancer screening. 

Teeth cleaning

A teeth cleaning is often performed the same day as the full dental exam, although the patient may be able to schedule the cleaning on a follow-up visit if desired. The cleaning involves a process known as scaling, in which plaque and tartar build-up are carefully scraped off the surfaces of the teeth and along the gum line. Teeth polishing, in which the enamel is smoothened and more plaque and stains are removed, is often performed after the teeth cleaning. 

Follow-up recommendation

At the end of the full dental exam, the dentist can provide a treatment recommendation. For patients in good oral health, this may only mean scheduling a check-up visit four to six months later. For patients who have specific oral care or cosmetic issues to address, the follow-up visit and treatment can be sooner. 

Schedule a full dental exam and protect your oral health

If it has been more than six months since your last dental exam, then call our dental team today to set up a visit. A full dental exam is a great way to determine if there are any oral health concerns that may need to be addressed and to prevent the need for more extensive treatment needs in the future.

Are you considering a dental exam in the Sunnyvale area? Get more information at https://stonecanyondental.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Sunnyvale, TX.

Recent Posts

Reasons A Dentist Would Recommend A Deep Cleaning

Your dentist might recommend a deep cleaning if you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease. Commonly known as gum disease, this condition affects about half of the people in the United States by the age of 45. Depending on how early the condition is detected, it can be reversed, but sometimes it may only be…

What To Expect During A Dental Cleaning

Your teeth and gums are some of the most important features of your smile, and it’s essential to take care of them with routine dental cleaning every six months or so. During these cleaning sessions, you’ll meet with your dentist and hygienist to go over any issues and talk about new ways to keep your…

How Often Should I Get A Dental Cleaning?

A dental cleaning and check-up should be done at least once or twice a year. Even if you practice an excellent oral hygiene routine at home, it is advisable to have a dentist perform a careful exam. The dental appointment can help identify developing oral issues before they worsen. One way to keep your oral…

Cavity Prevention Through Routine Dental Cleanings

Your dental health can impact your well-being, which is why a regular dental cleaning is so important. The most important factors in your oral health are regular checkups and good oral hygiene. It can be tempting to skip this important appointment, but some areas in your mouth are hard to clean. That can result in…

Recent Posts

The Benefits Of Regular General Dentist Visits

The Benefits Of Regular General Dentist Visits

Visiting a general dentist regularly can have a tremendous impact on the health and appearance of teeth. While carving out time in a schedule every six months for a dentist appointment can seem inconvenient, there are several reasons to set aside an hour or two twice a year for these visits.Dental professionals use specialized tools…

What If A General Dentist Does Not Treat An Abscessed Tooth

What If A General Dentist Does Not Treat An Abscessed Tooth

A general dentist is frequently called upon to diagnose and treat dental abscesses. Failure to get treatment for this infection can have serious health consequences.A tooth is said to be abscessed when a pocket of pus forms due to a bacterial infection. Patients who exhibit symptoms of an abscess should see a dental professional.People experiencing…

HOURS: MON 8AM-5PM TUES 8AM-4PM WED 8AM-4PM THURS 8AM-4PM FRI 8AM – NOON