Dental examinations diagnose diseases of the mouth, such as gum disease, oral cancers, and decay. In addition, regular examinations help alleviate problems while they are small and before they become expensive or impossible to repair. Dental examinations generally include the following:
- Oral cancer screening
- Evaluation of growth and development
- Orthodontic needs assessment
- Gum disease evaluation
- Visual examination of tooth decay
- X-rays to diagnose cysts, tumors, decay between the teeth, and other problems that cannot be seen by the naked eye
- Evaluation of the status of current restorations (e.g., fillings)