What happens during a comprehensive Exam?

Whether you’re a new patient or it’s been several years since your last dental visit, this exam allows us to get a complete understanding of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

Review of Your Medical and Dental History

Your comprehensive dental exam begins with a thorough review of your medical and dental history. This includes any medical conditions, medications, and past dental treatments. Your overall health is closely connected to your oral health, so this step helps us identify risk factors for conditions such as gum disease, dry mouth, or tooth decay.

We’ll also take time to listen to your concerns and figure out what your priorities are—whether you’re experiencing pain, cosmetic issues, or simply want to maintain a healthy smile.

Digital Dental X-Rays

X-rays are often taken during a comprehensive exam, especially for new patients. These images allow us to see what’s happening beneath the surface, including:

  • Cavities between teeth

  • Bone loss related to gum disease

  • Infections or abscesses

  • Impacted teeth or issues with existing dental work

Digital X-rays are safe, fast, and use significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays.

Tooth Examination

Each tooth is carefully examined to check for:

  • Cavities or early decay

  • Cracks, chips, or excessive wear

  • Failing fillings, crowns, or restorations

This detailed exam helps us address problems early—often before they cause pain or require more extensive treatment.

Gum Disease and Bone Health Evaluation

Healthy gums are essential to a healthy smile. During your exam, we measure gum pocket depths and check for signs of:

  • Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease)

  • Periodontitis (advanced gum disease)

  • Bone loss around the teeth

Early detection allows us to catch before gum disease before it leads to tooth loss.

Oral Cancer Screening

An oral cancer screening is a routine but critical part of every dental exam. We’ll examine your tongue, cheeks, lips, throat, and jaw for any unusual changes, lumps, or sores.

Bite and Jaw Assessment

We also evaluate your bite and jaw alignment to look for signs of:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching

  • Jaw pain or clicking

  • TMJ disorders

These issues can contribute to headaches, jaw discomfort, and premature tooth wear if left untreated.

Personalized Treatment Plan

After your exam, we’ll review all findings with you and explain any recommended treatment. If treatment is needed, we’ll discuss:

  • Available options

  • Timing and urgency

  • Estimated costs and insurance considerations

Our approach is always transparent and pressure-free. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that fits your needs, comfort level, and budget.

First-Visit Expectations for New Patients

If this is your first visit to Dental Plus, please plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete paperwork, and bring:

  • A photo ID

  • Dental insurance information (if applicable)

  • A list of current medications

If a cleaning is appropriate and time allows, it may be performed the same day. In some cases, treatment or a deep cleaning may be scheduled for a follow-up visit based on your oral health needs.

If you’re ready to find a trusted dentist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, contact us today.

Did you know…?

Recommended Frequency

Comprehensive Exam 3 years
Periodic Exam 6 months
Bitewing X-rays 6 mo – 1 yr
Panoramic X-ray 3 years
Regular Cleaning 6 months
Scaling & Root Planing As needed
Perio Maintenance 3 months
Brushing 2x daily
Flossing Nightly

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