What is the difference between a dental exam and a cleaning?
This is a question that I normally get asked by my patients, especially the new patients. For example, a new patient comes to the office for the first time. We will need a comprehensive dental exam for that patient. A comprehensive dental exam is different from a cleaning, which is just cleaning the patient's teeth. Normally, this is done for a patient who has been to the practice before. In the comprehensive dental exam, we address all the clinical information, medical history, take x-rays, scan their teeth, and go over past dental history. We also review radiographs and findings on the patient. If everything is fine, we can proceed with the dental cleaning.
How long does a full dental exam take?
This is a question that new patients often ask when they call the office. For example, if we have a new patient, we like to give them all the attention they need. We request the patient to be in the office for at least one hour to an hour and a half. This allows us to go over all the medical history, answer any questions they have, review x-rays, scan their mouth, explain future treatments and findings, and if the patient doesn't have any issues like periodontal disease, we can address their first cleaning.
How can a dentist tell if I have a cavity?
This is a very interesting question that patients usually ask. How do I have a cavity if I don't have pain? You can have a cavity with no symptoms at all, but the best way to identify the presence of a cavity is through a combination of a clinical exam and x-rays. That's why when a patient comes to the office with concerns, or even without concerns, we take x-rays to provide the proper diagnosis.
Do dentists fill cavities on the first visit?
Filling cavities on the first visit is another question that patients often ask. They come to the practice and say they have a cavity and want it addressed in the same appointment. First, we need to do a diagnosis. If the diagnosis shows that the patient only needs a cavity filled and we have the time, we can address it. In other cases, when the cavity is very aggressive or too deep, possibly requiring a root canal, we prefer to set up another visit to provide the proper attention and treatment.
How will dentists know if I need a root canal?
This is a great question that patients often ask. First, we have to take an x-ray and do a clinical evaluation to determine if the patient needs a root canal. Besides looking at the x-ray, we also conduct pulp tests and temperature exams to gather the proper information. Additionally, understanding when the pain occurs—whether it's only when eating or all the time—provides valuable information to determine if a root canal is necessary.
Are dental exams painful?
This is a question that apprehensive patients often ask. Going to the dentist is an experience, so we try to make patients feel at ease and comfortable, developing a trust between patient and dentist. Dental exams do not hurt.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for a dental exam?
Patients often ask this when they call to set up an appointment. To prepare for a dental exam, patients need to provide information about their medical history. We guide patients to our website to fill out their medical history forms, so they don't spend their appointment time filling out paperwork. We encourage our patients to be ready with their medical information and any concerns they have prior to the dental exam.
How can I schedule an appointment for a dental exam?
Patients often ask this when they call the office. To schedule an appointment, simply call the office. We are there for you. For new patients or emergencies, we try to book those appointments right away. If it's not an emergency, we can schedule another day. When we set up the appointment, we collect all the necessary information to see you promptly when you come to the practice. Additionally, we send reminders, a link to our website for filling out information, and directions to the office.
I hope I've been able to answer your questions about dental exams. If you have any additional questions or if you want to schedule an appointment, please give us a call at (201) 652-0400. We're here to help.