What is a dental examination and what are we looking for?

Dental examination is a systematic process during which your dentist will investigate many facets of your oral and systemic health in order to identify pathologies or concerns and develop a uniquely customised treatment plan that is catered towards maximising your oral health while meeting your goals and expectations. At Experteeth Dental Group, we take your oral health seriously.

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Medical History Form: a standard new patient form provided by ADA will cover most of the information we’d like to know. When you visit us, be sure to tell us about your general health. The more we know about your overall health, the more effective we can be in addressing your oral health care needs. Be sure to mention any new medical conditions you’ve been diagnosed with since your last visit,

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Investigation: the dental exam can catch problems early—before you see or feel them when they are much easier and less expensive to treat.

-> damaged, missing or decayed teeth

-> early signs of cavities

-> condition of your gums, such as periodontal pockets or signs of inflammation

-> previous dental work such as root canals, fillings and crowns

-> early signs of mouth or throat cancer, such as white lesions or blocked salivary glands other suspicious growths or cysts

-> position of your teeth (e.g., spacing, bite)

-> signs that you clench or grind your teeth

-> signs of bleeding or inflammation on other parts of oral soft tissue

-> the overall health and function of your temporomandibular joint

-> the general condition of the bones in your face, jaw and around your mouth

-> dental x-rays, if necessary. These can show such problems as cavities under existing fillings, fractures, impacted wisdom teeth, decay under your gum line and bone loss caused by gum disease.

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Diagnosis: Following the investigative stage of your oral exam, your dentist will spend some time with you talking about his findings, concerns and any problematic issues. You may be advised to consult with a specialist if more complicated or advanced work is required. A provisional treatment plan is discussed at this point in the visit.

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Education: Your dentist reviews brushing and flossing habits to ensure that you know how to perform them properly. Nutritional habits also play a role in dental hygiene. Special attention is given to people who suffer from bad breath (halitosis), dry mouth, tooth sensitivity and the like.

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Treatment Planning: Your dentist provides advice based on your individual needs. The plan will include emergency care, oral hygiene improvement, oral health rehabilitation, and maintenance care. The prognosis of each phase of the plan will be discussed according to the responses from the treatments.