Dental exams should take place once a year and are typically done by the dentist prior to or following one of your two routine annual cleanings.
During your exam, Dr. Sala will:
- Take a look at your teeth and gums to assess your current level of oral health
- Gather feedback from the hygienist and review any applicable x-rays
- Diagnose any problems and recommend potential options for treatment
- Address any concerns or questions you may have
- Provide suggestions for how to improve or maintain your oral hygiene
Dental exams are typically covered at 100% by insurance and are an important part of your regular visits; they give both you and the doctor an opportunity to check in with each other and make sure that you are on track to your perfect smile.
X-rays may be taken during your exam. Check-up x-rays (four films) are taken once per year, and a full set of x-rays (eighteen films) is taken once every five years. X-rays help us to locate and diagnose any problems or decay below the gumline, between teeth, or generally not visible to the naked eye.
Dental x-rays are one of the lowest radiation dose studies performed. A routine set of check-up x-rays has less radiation that one day of normal background radiation from your daily life. Ask Dr. Sala for more information if you have any concerns or questions.