Dental examinations are an important part of every person’s overall health care. Patients who perform proper dental hygiene at home still benefit from these examinations because a dentist can discover problems early, while they are easy to treat. Dental experts recommend that people visit their dentist for an examination and cleaning twice a year.

Prior to a dental examination, a patient should provide an updated medical and dental history to the dentist. This can identify certain medical conditions or lifestyle choices that may affect a patient’s oral health. Patients may also wish to speak to their dentist about any fear, anxiety or special concerns (e.g., a sensitive gag reflex). 

Dental examinations involve a number of components. These may include:

• Visual inspection of the soft tissue inside the mouth, including a check for lesions and signs of oral cancer.
  
  
• Periodontal screening, which may include a measurement of the space between the teeth and gums for signs of gum disease.
  
  
• Examination of a patient’s bite, which may indicate a need for braces.
  
  
• Visual inspection for signs of tooth decay. This may include the use of specialized tools that can help a dentist identify the presence of cavities.
  

  

• Feeling the head and neck area, including the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), for signs of infection, disease or other problems.
  
  
• Dental x-rays, to identify any hidden signs of decay or disease. The frequency of x-rays depends on a patient’s dental history and risk of tooth decay.
  
  
• Dental cleanings, usually performed by a dental hygienist who cleans and polishes the teeth, and may apply a fluoride treatment.

After an examination, patients may be advised on the proper method of brushing and flossing their teeth. The use of fluoride may also be encouraged.