Comprehensive dental exam
A comprehensive dental exam is more thorough and detailed than a routine checkup. It is recommended any time you visit a new dentist to obtain the full picture of your dental health. It is usually conducted during your initial visit to our practice. However, if you have not had regular dental checkups in a long time, it can also be recommended to determine if there have been any changes in your general health or in your dental condition since your last visit.
What is involved in the comprehensive examination?
1. Medical History review: We will review your dental and medical history including any current medications you are taking, previous dental treatments, and any relevant medical conditions that may affect your oral health.
2. Digital X-Rays: If appropriate for you, a full set of x-rays will be taken to help us detect and diagnose any issues that are not visible during a visual examination. With help of XRays, the dentist can detect the presence of cavities in between teeth or under existing fillings. These XRays can also reveal infections, impacted teeth, any bone loss or cysts and any other possible abnormalities in the oral cavity.
Digital XRays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays, making them extremely safe for patients of all ages.
3. Visual examination: The dentist will inspect your entire mouth thoroughly, including teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, roof, and floor of the mouth.
Your teeth: We examine every tooth for possible damage, including cracks and chips that may cause discomfort. If you have fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, or other dental restorations, the dentist will evaluate their condition and integrity and detect decay or early signs of cavities.
Your gums: We examine the condition of your gums and identify signs of gum disease, such as bleeding or inflammation and check for periodontal pockets, which can lead to tooth and bone loss. Based on this screening, a complete periodontal exam may be recommended.
Your soft tissues: All the soft tissues of the mouth, including gums, tongue, cheeks, and lips, are examined for signs of oral diseases, such as oral cancer, infections, or lesions.
Your joints and bite (occlusion): We check your masticatory system including the position of your teeth and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and look for signs of teeth grinding or clenching. This includes checking for issues such as crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, or malocclusion.
4. Oral Health Education: Throughout the examination, your dental hygienist will provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing and flossing techniques and diet recommendations, if applicable.
5. Discussion and treatment planning: Dr. Mauricio Galvis, West Island dentist in Pointe-Claire, will explain his findings to you, listen to your concerns, answer all your questions and discuss any issues you may have. We will create your individualized treatment plan, which will include solutions to treat existing issues before they progress as well as preventive measures to avoid possible dental problems from developing. Dr. Galvis will also discuss any cosmetic procedures you may be interested in and include his recommendations in the treatment plan.
