The Process of
The Dental Examination Process
Your teeth cleaning dentist will first ask you if you’ve experienced any dental problems since your last checkup. They will also take a note of any new medications you’ve started taking.
Your dentist will then:
- Take a look inside your mouth for signs of decay or damage
- Check any existing restorations, e.g. fillings and crowns
- Examine your gums for signs of gum disease using a special probe that’s placed between the gum and tooth
- Look at your tongue, throat, cheeks and lips for signs of oral cancer
- Examine the jaw joint to ensure there are no jaw problems
- Undertake a thorough cleaning of your teeth
Dental x-rays may or may not be necessary depending on the extent of any problems found. Regular x-rays of your teeth may also be taken every few years to ensure there are no developing problems.
If any problems are discovered in the course of your dental examination, your dentist will draw up a treatment plan for you that outlines the necessary work as well as its cost. You’ll be able to make an appointment to return to our clinic at a convenient time to obtain the necessary treatment.