Untreated tooth decay and cavities are some of the most common health conditions worldwide. Many people aren't taking good care of their teeth. Are you? 

If you aren't having routine dental exams, the answer to that is a resounding "no." Sure, you may be taking good care of your teeth at home, but it's best to have a dentist check up on you to make sure you're not missing any signs of problems. 

But what is a dental exam anyway? How often should you see your dentist for exams, and what happens during each exam?

We're here to answer those questions so you can go to your appointment with confidence. 

Read on to learn all about dental exams. 

First: What Is a Dental Exam?

So what is a dental exam anyway? A dental exam is a routine checkup conducted by a dentist to assess a patient's oral health.

The purpose of a dental exam is to identify any potential issues early on, provide preventive care, and address any existing dental concerns.

Dental exams may not seem like a top priority, but remember that some dental issues are dangerous and can cause harm to your physical health as well. It's good to address them as early as possible. 

How Often Should I Go For a Dental Exam?

Most dentists recommend that patients visit a dentist for a routine exam about twice per year. One time per year is the absolute minimum. 

People who already experience dental issues may want to have more frequent appointments, as well as people who are going through orthodontic work. 

Twice per year may seem too frequent, but this gives the dentist enough time to catch dental issues as early as possible. This can save you a lot of time, money, and pain in the future. 

How Long Does a Dental Exam Take?

Many people worry about how long a dental exam takes. How can you fit a dental exam into your schedule? 

Dental exams don't take long at all, especially if your teeth are healthy and you don't have any pre-existing conditions. Even with X-rays, a routine dental exam often takes less than an hour. 

Dental Exam vs. Dental Cleaning

A dental exam is not the same as a dental cleaning. Dental cleanings happen after dental exams, and you generally have to schedule them with the dentist.

The dentist will not do the cleaning in most cases. Instead, a hygienist will take care of it. A hygienist may inspect your teeth and gums and make notes for the dentist, but their main job is to clean your teeth. 

Average Dental Exam Breakdown

So what happens during an average dental exam? 

There are different types of dental exams, but when it comes to the routine exam you should be having twice per year, most of them are the same. Here's a quick breakdown of what you can expect. 

Potential X-rays

The dentist or dental assistant may take several X-rays to get a more comprehensive view of your oral structures, including areas between teeth and below the gum line. X-rays help identify issues such as cavities, impacted teeth, and bone loss.

These X-rays may be taken with a tool that goes over your head, tools that go in your mouth, or both. X-rays happen once every few exams in most cases. You won't have to do this during every dental exam.

Brief Health Overview

The official dental visit often begins with a review of your medical history. The dentist will ask about any changes in your health, medications you may be taking, and any concerns you have related to your oral health. Health and medication questions may seem irrelevant, but do your best to answer them anyway.

During this stage of the dental exam, the dentist may also discuss your oral hygiene habits, including your brushing and flossing routine. They may offer suggestions and guidance and suggest improvements if your routine is lacking.

Examination of the Teeth and Gums

The dentist will visually inspect your teeth, looking for any signs of decay, discoloration, or other abnormalities. They may use a dental mirror and a small tool to check for cavities and each tooth's overall condition. Often, dentists will point out warning signs for cavities even if there are no actual cavities present yet. 

The health of your gums is crucial for overall oral health. The dentist will examine your gums for signs of inflammation or bleeding.

They may use a tool called a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums. This may pinch a bit, but it won't last long.

If you have existing dental work, such as fillings, crowns, implants, or bridges, the dentist will inspect their condition to ensure they are intact and functioning as they should.

Post-Exam Discussion

After the dental exam, the dentist will discuss what they found. If they've identified any issues, they will explain the recommended treatments or interventions. This is also the time to ask questions or address any concerns.

Based on the outcome of the exam, the dentist may work together with you to develop a treatment plan if any dental issues need to be addressed. This plan may include additional appointments for restorative procedures, preventive measures, or follow-up care.

This is also a great time to ask about any other type of dental work, such as cosmetic dental work or even orthodontic work. The dentist can refer you to the right person for the job and help you determine what will suit your situation best. 

Is It Time for a Dental Exam?

So what is a dental exam? It's one thing for sure: essential!

When was your last routine dental exam? If it's been a while, it might be time to schedule your next appointment with your friendly neighborhood NYC dentist. Keep your teeth and gums healthy!

At Tribeca Smiles, our team of dentists specializes in general dentistry, restorative dentistry, sleep dentistry, and more. With our combined expertise, we'll help you protect and restore your smile. 



Request an appointment with us today.