Comprehensive Exams
The American Dental Associations (ADA) define a 'comprehensive oral Exam " as an extensive evaluation and the recording of all extraoral, intraoral and soft tissues”.
The American Dental Association (ADA) defines periodic oral exam as “..an exam that is done on established patients to determine any changes in dental and health status since a previous comprehensive or periodic evaluation”.
The ADA advises patients to undertake a comprehensive dental exam during their first visit. It is also recommended that all patients have this exam every three years.
A comprehensive dental exam takes enormous time. It comprises of:
- Periodontal exam to check the gum and bones around the teeth
- Dental examination of the teeth
- Examining the head and the neck for cancer
- Bite analysis exam
- Jaw joints Examination
- X-rays and various scan examination
- Quantity and quality of saliva function examination
- Aesthetic exam (tooth appearance and gums related to the face)
A comprehensive exam is an all-inclusive examination to furnish your dentist with all necessary information about your dental health. You have to be examined before you undertake the following procedures:
- Esthetic procedure
- Implants
- New dentures
- Medical disease diagnosis
- Old dental restorations updating