Dental Examination Health Article

Definition

A dental examination is part of an oral examination: the close inspection of the teeth and tissues of the mouth using physical assessment, radiographs, and other diagnostic aids. Dental care begins with this assessment, and is followed by diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Purpose

The examination identifies tooth decay and evaluates the health of the gums and other oral tissues. The fit of dentures and bridges (if any) are evaluated. The patient's bite and oral hygiene are also assessed. The dentist then recommends the best treatment options to the patient.

Precautions

Before a dental examination patients with heart-valve disease must take antibiotics to prevent bacteria that may spread into the bloodstream from causing endocarditis. Hypertensive patients may need to have their blood pressure measured. Many dentists prefer not to examine patients who have active herpes sores on or near the mouth. To maintain a sterile environment, dentists and their assistants don gloves and masks.

Description

A dental examination is part of a comprehensive oral examination to evaluate the mouth, jaw, and teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that patients seeing a dentist for the first time receive a comprehensive examination, and that established patients be thoroughly evaluated every three years, with professional oral care and periodontal maintenance between examinations. Comprehensive evaluations are usually combined with a dental cleaning, x rays, and other diagnostic tests. If a new patient presents with an emergency, the situation will be evaluated and treated first. Once the emergency is over, an appointment for a complete oral examination will be scheduled.

The examination begins with a review of the patient's complete medical and dental history, which is usually a form or questionnaire completed by the patient. Once the dentist is familiar with any special conditions that may affect the patient during the exam—heart disease, relevant allergies, or the use of medications such as blood thinners—the examination and cleaning can proceed.