Examination

What is a dental examination?

In an examination, your dentist will check how healthy your teeth, gums and other oral tissues are.

You and your dentist will then discuss the options that are available to you and decide which treatment, if any, is most suitable for you.

What will this involve?

During the examination, your dentist will:

• Look at places inside and around your mouth, which you may find hard to see. For example, your tongue, the floor of your mouth and other oral soft tissues need to be checked.
• Check that your teeth and gums are healthy and identify whether there are any signs of decay, damage or gum disease.
• If necessary, take x-rays to gain more information about your teeth and gums.
• Check out any areas that you the patient are concerned about.

Why are regular dental examinations important?

It is important for you to have regular dental examinations, so that your dentist can help you to maintain a healthy mouth and also check for any early signs of dental problems, such as decay or gum disease. It is also very important to be screened regularly for Oral Cancer. This will enable your dentist to rectify the problem before it gets too complicated and requires extensive treatment.