What are Dental Exams? West Nyack Dentist Explains

Routine dental exams are important to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends twice yearly checkups for people of all ages. At this frequency, most problems can be caught while they remain in an early stage.

How Dental Exams are Done:
The dentist first examines your mouth visually, using dental equipment such as mouth mirrors, dental picks, and high intensity lights. They will look for cracked and decayed teeth, as well as review other important items such as:

• Medical history review: The dentist will assess how any new medical conditions or illnesses may affect your dental health.
• Examination of tooth decay: Your mouth will be checked for cracked or decayed teeth
• Oral cancer screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums will be checked for any signs of oral cancer.
• Gum disease evaluation: Your gums and bone around the teeth will be checked for any evidence of periodontal disease
• Examination of existing restorations: Current dental fillings, crowns, and other restorations are made sure to be in good order.

Additionally, your dentist will take diagnostic x-rays to reveal any other hidden problems, especially in the areas below the gums. Bitewing x-rays are typically taken every 12 months and a panographic x-ray, which revolves around the head, is taken every 3-5 years.

How Much Do Dental Exams Cost?
Dental exams vary in cost depending on the severity of the problems encountered, however patients can help avoid the financial costs associated with large treatment plans later on by ensuring they get dental exams at least twice a year. Kupchik Dental, serving West Nyack, New City, and the surrounding areas, offers affordable dental exams - call today for an estimate.

Schedule Your Dental Exam Today! Call: (845) 535-3500