A dental exam is a routine visit where we check your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, disease, or issues—helping catch problems early and keep your smile healthy.
During a dental exam, we check your teeth, gums, and jaw. We may take X-rays to spot hidden issues. It’s a proactive step to catch small problems before they become bigger ones.
Regular dental exams catch small issues before they become big problems. They help maintain healthy teeth and gums, prevent future dental emergencies, and keep your smile in great shape year after year.
Dental Exam
Protect your oral health with checkups.
Every patient should have a dental exam at least twice a year. It’s vital for catching early signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems before they become painful or expensive to fix.
During your exam, your dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite, and any problem areas. X-rays may be taken. It’s a painless, preventive appointment that helps catch issues early and sets you up for long-term oral health success.
A dental exam takes about 30–45 minutes. This includes a visual inspection, X-rays if needed, and a review of your dental health. Exams are often combined with cleanings and give your dentist a chance to catch issues before they become serious.
Dental exams are preventive, even if nothing feels wrong. Skipping them may allow small problems to become big ones. It's the best way to stay ahead of cavities, gum issues, or damage before they turn into costly or painful procedures.
There’s no recovery after a dental exam. If X-rays are taken, you can resume normal activity immediately. If the dentist finds issues, they’ll guide you on next steps for treatment or care.
