Dental Examination

Dental exams are a critical part of preventive health care. Regular dental exams give your dentist a chance to detect any problems early when they're most treatable. During a dental exam, your dentist or hygienist will:

• Discuss with you your diet and oral hygiene habits
• Demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques if necessary
• Clean your teeth and check for cavities and gum disease
• Evaluate your risk of tooth decay, root decay, and gum or bone disease
• Evaluate your need for tooth restoration or tooth replacement
• Check your bite and jaw for problems
• Assess your need for fluoride treatments
• Check your face, neck and mouth for abnormalities
• If you have denture, demonstrate proper cleaning techniques for your dentures
• Depending on dental problems detected, your dentist may also take dental X-rays or, do perform other diagnostic procedures

A small dental mirror can be very useful for home diagnosis of possible dental problems. In the event that you notice any potential issues, it is strongly advisable to visit your local dentist.