Dental Exams
A dental exam is an important preventive dentistry treatment. Everybody, no matter their age, should have a dental exam at least twice per year. Some people may need even more frequent appointments.
During these appointments, our friendly dentists will check your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, and more. With regular dental exams, you can maintain better oral health and catch dental problems early on.
If it’s been over six months since you’ve had a dental exam, now is the time to book an appointment at our Brentwood office. Give us a call to learn more!
What Happens During a Dental Exam?
A dental exam is when the dentist checks your mouth and teeth after a teeth cleaning. If it’s your first appointment with us, Drs. McLaughlin, Patel, or Peterman will get your medical and dental history. They will want to learn about medical conditions and medications to ensure you get safe, vital dental care.
Then, your dentist will use an angled mirror and dental tool to examine your teeth and check for cavities. They will also look at any recent dental X-rays and talk to the hygienist about anything they noticed during the cleaning.
Next, they will assess your jawbone and bite, then check your tongue and soft tissues for oral cancer and any other dental concerns.
Finally, your dentist will double-check that you don’t have any questions or concerns. You’ll receive advice on any additional treatments you need. Dental exams aren’t painful and don’t take very long, but they are crucial for early detection of many dental issues.
Benefits of Dental Exams
The main purpose of a dental exam is prevention. These visits allow the dentist to detect warning signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and many other health concerns. Routine dental exams also allow your dentist to see changes to your mouth and teeth over time.
Dental exams are also the perfect time to ask questions and receive advice and education on caring for dental health in your daily life.
Oral Cancer Exams at Each Visit with Middle Tennessee Prosthodontics
Your routine dental exam is about more than checking your teeth—it is also an opportunity to protect your overall health. At Middle Tennessee Prosthodontics, our routine visits and exams include a thorough oral cancer screening.
During this screening, our team carefully examines your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat for any irregularities. We are looking for subtle changes in tissue, texture, or coloration that may not be noticeable without training. These exams are designed to identify concerns as early as possible—when treatment is most effective.
Because oral cancer can develop without obvious symptoms in its early stages, consistent screenings play an important role in maintaining your long-term health. With our attention to detail and commitment to precision care, you can feel confident that every aspect of your oral health is being monitored at each visit.
Symptoms to Watch for Between Visits
While routine screenings are essential, there are times when you should schedule an exam sooner than your next 6-month appointment. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is important to have them evaluated:
- Persistent Sores: Ulcers or sores in your mouth that do not heal within 2 weeks
- Unusual Lumps or Thickened Areas: Any new growths or changes in tissue texture
- Red or White Patches: Discoloration on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks
- Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking: Ongoing discomfort when eating, talking, or moving your jaw
- Numbness or Pain: Unexplained numbness, tenderness, or chronic soreness in the mouth or lips
Early evaluation allows us to address concerns quickly and provide peace of mind. If something feels different or does not seem to be healing, it is always worth having it checked. Your health and comfort are our priority.
How Often Do I Need a Dental Exam?
You’ll receive a dental exam each time you get your teeth cleaned. So, for most patients with healthy mouths, you’ll need a cleaning and exam every 6 months. However, if you have gum disease or are prone to cavities, you’ll likely want a cleaning and exam every 3–4 months.
Our dental team will make a treatment plan for you and let you know if you’d benefit from more frequent appointments.
Worried Something is Wrong? Schedule an Exam!
While routine exams are only necessary around every 6 months, that is mostly if there is nothing wrong with your smile. We do exams outside of a regular visit often, and recommend them if a patient is worried. A non-routine exam can be done for:
You notice a new bump or irregularity in your smile that could indicate oral cancer. Also check for a white tongue or a constantly swollen throat.
You are experiencing signs of infection or gum disease, such as a bad taste in your mouth, sores, or loose teeth.
You’ve experienced a dental emergency and would like to know what treatments can best help. Dental emergencies include dental trauma, lost teeth, swelling, or pain.
If you have a constant toothache or swelling in any part of your mouth, it should be evaluated quickly.
If you feel like something is “off” but you aren’t sure what it is, an exam can help us address your concerns. It is better to schedule an appointment and an exam than to wait and have an issue remain unaddressed.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Dental exams are a straightforward, pain-free dental treatment. They are critical to keeping your mouth healthy and happy. So, if you need a dental cleaning and exam, we are here to help. We have two dental hygienists as full-time staff for cleanings, while Drs. McLaughlin, Patel, and Peterman provide exams and other general dentistry services.
We are accepting patients in the Brentwood, TN, area, so don’t hesitate to reach out, whether you’re a new or current part of our dental team. Call or message us today to schedule your visit!