What Happens at a Full Dental Exam?

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.