Precision Checkups for Healthier Smiles
- Full mouth X-rays
- Comprehensive clinical exam
- Intra-oral photos
- Have dental insurance?: Your cost will depend on your specific plan.
Comprehensive Oral Exam
At Lakeside Dental in Folsom, a comprehensive oral exam includes teeth, gums, jaw joints, and bite alignment. Our Folsom dentist checks for signs of wear, cracks in teeth, loose dental restorations, gum recession, and bone loss. Annual x-rays offer a clear view beneath the surface of the teeth, revealing the state of your roots, the core of your teeth, and bone health. Every exam also includes a visual inspection of your oral soft tissues, including the lips, cheeks, tongue, and palate. The goal is to ensure we catch any dental concerns, such as the early growth of cysts, abscesses, sores, tumors, or cancer, and recommend treatment that is customized to your oral health needs.
Enhanced Oral Screening
Following your comprehensive visual and digital exam at Lakeside Dental, a VELscope screening is completed. Using a special blue-spectrum light, this enhanced screening identifies any abnormal tissue that may not be visible under regular lighting or x-rays during the dental exam. The scan takes only a few minutes and involves no discomfort. It helps spot early signs of oral cancer or other tissue changes long before they become visible. Together, the comprehensive oral exam and the VELscope screening provide a complete picture of your oral health. These exams support prevention via early detection and promote confidence in your smile’s future.
Dental Exam FAQs
How often should I have a dental exam?
Most patients should have a dental exam every six months, although some may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health. Your dentist may recommend a different schedule if you have gum disease, frequent cavities, certain medical conditions, or other concerns that require closer monitoring.
What happens during a dental exam?
During a dental exam, your dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite, and other areas of your mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, damaged restorations, infection, and other oral health concerns. Your visit may also include dental X-rays, an oral cancer screening, and recommendations for preventive or restorative treatment when needed.
Do dental exams include X-rays?
X-rays are often part of a dental exam, but they are not necessarily taken at every visit. Your dentist will determine when X-rays are appropriate based on your dental history, age, symptoms, and risk for cavities or other oral health problems.
Can a dental exam detect cavities before they hurt?
Yes. One of the main benefits of regular dental exams is finding cavities before they become painful. Early tooth decay may not cause noticeable symptoms, but your dentist can often identify changes in the tooth during an examination or with dental X-rays.
Can a dental exam detect gum disease?
Yes. Dental exams include evaluating your gums for signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Your dental team may look for redness, swelling, bleeding, gum recession, or changes in the spaces between your teeth and gums. Detecting gum disease early can help prevent more serious damage to the gums and supporting bone.
Does a dental exam include an oral cancer screening?
A comprehensive dental exam may include checking the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and other soft tissues for unusual changes. Regular dental visits give your dentist an opportunity to identify areas that may require additional evaluation.
Do I still need dental exams if my teeth feel fine?
Yes. Many dental problems develop without causing pain or obvious symptoms in their early stages. Regular exams allow your dentist to identify cavities, gum disease, cracks, worn restorations, and other concerns before they become more complicated or uncomfortable.
What is the difference between a dental exam and a dental cleaning?
A dental exam focuses on evaluating the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth, while a dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and surface buildup from your teeth. These services are often completed during the same visit, but they serve different purposes and may be scheduled separately depending on your individual needs.
How should I prepare for a dental exam?
Brush and floss as you normally would before your appointment. Bring a list of medications you take and let your dental team know about any changes to your health. You should also mention tooth sensitivity, pain, bleeding gums, jaw discomfort, or other concerns so your dentist can evaluate them during your visit.
How much is a new patient dental exam at Lakeside Dental?
Lakeside Dental currently offers a new patient exam for $99 for patients without dental insurance. The exam includes full-mouth X-rays, a comprehensive clinical examination, and intraoral photos. If you have dental insurance, your cost will depend on the benefits provided by your specific plan.
Strong teeth, healthy gums, and a fresh outlook — all begin with a simple step into the Lakeside Dental exam room. Book your appointment today!
