Dental Exam
Reviewed
Also called: dental checkup, oral exam, oral hygiene, dental hygiene, dental prophylaxis, Dental check-ups
A dental exam is part of a checkup of your teeth and gums. During a dental exam, you'll usually see both a dentist and dental hygienist.
Specimen: Not applicable (in-office examination)
Urgent safety information
If you have swollen, dark red, 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.
Why this test may be ordered
- To clean teeth and help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems
- To find problems early when they are easier to treat
- To help people learn the best ways to care for their oral health
Preparation and collection
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.
At a typical dental exam, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth. Then the dentist will examine your mouth. At certain visits, you may have x-rays of your teeth before the dentist examines you. Ask your dentist how often you need x-rays.
There is very little risk to having a dental exam. The cleaning may be uncomfortable, but it's usually not painful. Dental x-rays are safe for most people. The dose of radiation in an x-ray is very low. But x-rays are not recommended during pregnancy, unless it's an emergency. Be sure to tell your dentist if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
Understanding results
After your dental exam, your dentist will discuss any oral health problems you may have and your treatment options.
- Cavity or other oral health problem found: Common oral health problems, such as tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease (periodontal disease), can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Limitation: These can show hidden cavities, gum disease, bone loss in your jaw, and other problems that can't be seen by looking in your mouth. Next step: If you or your child has a cavity or a more serious problem, you'll probably need to make another appointment with the dentist to treat it.
- Advice to keep teeth and gums healthy: Your dentist or dental hygienist may also recommend that you take certain steps to make sure your mouth and teeth are healthy. Limitation: Poor oral health can affect your general health, too. Next step: Brushing your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste with fluoride.
- The cleaning may be uncomfortable but is usually not painful.
- Dental x-rays involve a very low dose of radiation; they are not recommended during pregnancy unless it is an emergency.
What to do next
You can help prevent oral health problems with regular visits to the dentist and good toothbrushing and flossing habits at home.
- How often should I have a dental exam?
- Do I need x-rays at this visit?
- What can I do at home to improve my oral health?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.