A dentist will perform an oral exam to identify any problems with the mouth and teeth. He will also feel around the neck and head to see any issues with the lymph nodes or salivary glands. Finally, the dentist will check the temporomandibular joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. The dental examination aims to maximize oral health and meet patient expectations.

The dentist will also examine the soft tissues in the mouth, such as the tongue, the insides of the cheeks and lips, and the roof and floor of the mouth. The doctor will also check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease. If a dental examination finds any signs of damage to the mouth, a dentist can recommend treatment to address those problems. He will also give you advice about taking care of your teeth and gums in the future.

During a dental exam, a dentist will check for signs of tooth decay, including cavities and gum disease. The dentist may also ask you to bite into a wax-dipped in acetaminophen to feel for indications of deterioration. The dentist will also look for signs of cavities by probing the teeth with a dental instrument called an explorer. Decayed teeth are typically softer than healthy teeth and are more difficult to detect with a naked eye.

Most dental exams take between 45 and 60 minutes and involve several minor procedures. Your dentist will discuss the issues you’ve discovered during your examination and suggest treatments. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, making an appointment with a dental clinic is a top priority. Doing research online or asking friends for recommendations will help you narrow down your choices. Once you’ve made your appointment, make sure to schedule an exam.

In addition to the preventive measures, a dental examination will allow your dentist to detect and treat any problems early. Early treatment will be easier and less painful than later treatment. It’s also important to see your dentist for dental x-rays because they can see what you can’t. In addition to taking dental x-rays, your dentist may also perform Panoramically, Bitewings and Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.

It’s good to visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups. Regular checkups help your dentist detect any problems early on, saving you money and pain in the future. So, it’s a good idea to see a dentist every six months, even if you think it’s unnecessary. If you have a history of gum disease, you should schedule more frequent dental exams to keep your gums healthy.

An oral dental examination is essential for screening for oral cancer. It begins with a visual inspection of your mouth and continues with touching your throat and jaw. If the dentist finds something unusual, they may refer you to a specialist for a biopsy. Once the doctor determines the cause, they can recommend therapy to treat it. If you have a smoking history, getting regular dental exams is essential.