According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a comprehensive oral exam is a broad evaluation of a person’s intraoral, soft tissues and extraoral and record all the findings from such assessments. The country’s largest dental association recommends that all new patients undergo a comprehensive dental examination during their initial visit while established patients be given the exam every three years. They are, however, required to undergo a periodic oral exam which is a type of assessment that will help determine any changes in the health and dental status of established patients since their last comprehensive exam.
A comprehensive exam is also necessary prior to the following procedures:
- New dentures
- Implants to replace missing teeth
- Esthetic changes to your smile
- Updating old dental restorations
What’s Included in a Comprehensive Dental Exam?
This exam takes an entire appointment and will comprise of the following:
- Periodontal exam (this includes the bones and gums supporting the teeth)
- Teeth exam
- Head and neck exam including the soft tissues of the throat, mouth and surrounding structures to check for possible signs of cancer
- Bite analysis
- TMJ exam
- Radiographic exams such as X-rays
- Salivary function test
- Esthetic assessment which checks the appearance of the gums and teeth, and how it affects the face.
With a comprehensive dental exam, you’re assured that Dr. Baim will do everything she can to know everything there is to know about your oral health and she will discuss with you any treatment that may be required to maintain good health.