A dental exam is a comprehensive evaluation of teeth, gums, bite, jaw joints, and oral tissues designed to assess overall oral health, detect disease, evaluate existing restorations, and establish a personalized baseline for preventive and restorative dental care planning.
Your dentist visually examines your mouth, reviews digital X-rays, checks gum health, evaluates bite alignment, and inspects restorations while discussing symptoms, concerns, and medical history to accurately diagnose current conditions and anticipate future dental needs.
Dental exams help identify problems early, reduce the risk of advanced disease, guide conservative treatment decisions, improve long-term oral health outcomes, minimize unexpected dental emergencies, and support comfortable, confident smiles through proactive monitoring and preventive professional care.

Dental Exam

Check oral health with a thorough, personalized dental examination.

Patients seeking routine care, preventive maintenance, or evaluation of dental concerns should consider dental exams. Ideal for new or returning patients who want to maintain oral health, catch issues early, and create a personalized plan for long-term dental wellness.
The experience is thorough yet comfortable. You’ll receive a comprehensive evaluation, clear explanations, and time to ask questions. Digital imaging and gentle techniques help you feel informed, relaxed, and confident about your oral health and any recommended care.
A dental exam typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on X-rays and findings. New patient visits may take slightly longer. Most exams are completed in a single appointment with no recovery time needed.
Keep in mind that exams may reveal issues you’re not feeling yet. Early findings don’t always require immediate treatment but help guide future care and prevention.
There is no recovery time after a dental exam. You can return to normal activities immediately. If X-rays or probing caused minor sensitivity, it typically resolves quickly without special care.