One often overlooked service performed by dental care professionals is the oral exam. While most patients tend to think of teeth cleanings as the primary preventive service performed at the dentist’s office, oral screenings are also an important component of quality care. Learn more about the components of a standard oral exam below. 

A Beginner’s Guide to Oral Exams

Visual Inspection

Your dentist or hygienist will begin an exam by evaluating your overall oral health. Based on this visual assessment alone, they may be able to tell whether you’re a candidate for tooth restoration or replacement. They can also determine your risk for gum disease based on factors like redness, swelling, or recession of the gums. Additionally, they’ll look for signs of cavities and examine your bite for any alignment problems.

Beyond these factors, the dentist or hygienist will examine the soft tissue of your mouth for oral cancer. Because people don’t tend to look inside their mouths often, a dental professional may be the first to catch early signs of oral cancer. They’ll also feel along your jaw and neck for any lumps or abnormalities. The success rates for effectively treating cancer are higher when the disease is caught in its earliest stages.

Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays are typically performed every year. They allow dental professionals to spot any issues that aren’t visible during the standard exam, including problems below the gum line; for example, small cavities, infected pulp, and impacted wisdom teeth. While the radiation exposure from a dental X-ray is minimal, pregnant women may be advised to hold off until after they’ve given birth.

If you’re seeking a trusted team to perform oral exams and help you maintain comprehensive oral care, turn to Shurett Dental Group. Serving Rockdale County, GA, the dental professionals are all members of the American Dental Association and the Georgia Dental Association. They welcome patients of all ages and offer a broad range of services, including preventive care, cavity treatments, and restorations. Explore their full list of services online, or call (770) 860-8760 to schedule an appointment.