Dental Exam

A dental exam is part of a checkup of your teeth and gums. When you see your dentist for a checkup, the visit usually includes three parts: A dental cleaning to remove the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that coats your teeth; X-rays of your teeth on certain visits, depending on the health of your teeth; An exam of your teeth and mouth by a dentist; Dental exams are important for protecting your oral health. Oral health includes your teeth, gums, and all the muscles and bones that let you smile, speak, and chew.

Common oral health problems, such as include tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease (periodontal disease), can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Poor oral health can affect your general health, too. For example, loosing teeth can cause problems with eating and nutrition, which can lead to other health problems.

You can help prevent oral health problems with regular visits to the dentist and good toothbrushing and flossing habits at home. At a dental checkup, you'll usually see both a dentist and a dental hygienist. A dentist is a doctor who has special training to care for teeth and gums.

A dental hygienist is a health care professional trained to clean teeth and teach you how to take good care of your teeth and gums. Dentists can treat people of all ages. There are also pediatric dentists who have received additional training on dental care for children.

Why this test is done

Ask your dentist or hygienist how often you should have exams. Most adults and children need to have a routine dental exam every six months. You may need more frequent dental exams if you:

• Have gum disease
• Get a lot of cavities
• Have a family history of oral health problems
• Have a health condition that may increase your risk for oral health problems, such as:
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• HIV
• Conditions that affect your immune system
• Take medicines that make your mouth dry
• Smoke
• Are pregnant, which increases your risk for gum disease

If you have swollen, dark red, and/or bleeding gums, tooth pain, or other discomfort in your mouth, don't wait for your routine dental exam. Contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Babies should have their first dental appointment within six months of getting their first tooth, or by their first birthday. Ask your baby's dentist how often your baby should have a dental exam. Most babies should be checked every six months.

How to prepare

If you have certain health conditions, you may need to take antibiotics before your exam to prevent infections. Ask your dentist and/or your health care provider whether you need antibiotics, especially if you have heart problems or an immune system disorder.

Some people feel anxious about going to the dentist. If you or your child feels this way, tell your dentist before your visit. Your dentist can discuss ways to help you feel more relaxed about getting dental care.

Other names for this test

dental checkup, oral exam, oral hygiene, dental hygiene, dental prophylaxis