Dental Exams

Regular dental exams are essential for maintaining long-term oral health and catching issues before they become serious. During these visits, your dentist will check for cavities, gum disease, signs of cancer, and any other issues that may go unnoticed at home.

Exams can also prevent complex and expensive treatments by identifying early warning signs. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want to stay proactive, routine dental checkups not only improve your oral health but can affect other parts of the body like your heart, lungs, and brain!

What Happens During a Dental Exam?

An exam usually includes a thorough evaluation of the teeth, gums, and bite alignment. Your dentist will check for cavities, plaque buildup, gum recession, and early signs of gum disease. They may also perform oral cancer screenings and address concerns you have. Dental X-rays may be recommended to detect any hidden issues. If your provider does find someting, they’ll schedule a follow-up with a specialist to begin treatment right away.

How Often Should I Go to the Dentist for Checkups?

Most dentists recommend scheduling a dental exam every six months to maintain a healthy smile and address any oral health issues early on. However, people with gum disease, frequent cavities, or medical conditions like diabetes might require more frequent visits. Staying consistent with your checkups is one of the best ways to improve your health and well-being.

Does a Dental Exam Hurt or Feel Uncomfortable?

A dental exam is usually painless. Most providers are very gentle during the process and use specialized tools to remove hard-to-reach areas without causing discomfort. If you do experience sensitivity or anxiety, notify your dental team so they can take extra steps to make sure you’re comfortable. The exam process is designed to be quick and non-invasive, making them easy to complete even if your last visit was a long time ago.

How Long Does a Dental Exam Usually Take?

A standard dental exam usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on your needs and your dentist’s schedule that day. If X-rays or a cleaning are needed, the appointment may last 45 minutes to an hour. As long as there are no issues, you should be in and out quickly and on to your next destination. We perform exams for both kids and adults at our three offices in Davie, Plantation, and Tamarac.

What Happens If I Don’t Go to the Dentist?

Skipping dental checkups highly increases the risk of untreated cavities, gum disease, infections, and other oral health problems that can worsen over time and even cause issues with other parts of your body. Without regular checkups, minor issues can go undetected until they become painful or require more complex treatment. Bi-annual exams with a dentist will help reduce the risk of mouth disease and prevent expensive dental issues down the road.