Comprehensive Exams

We take time to review your medical and dental history, clarify your goals, and listen to any specific concerns. This ensures your care is personalized, focused, and aligned with what matters to you.

Every exam begins with low-radiation digital x-rays, which allows us to examine areas not visible to the naked eye. These images enable us to assess bone levels, detect cavities between teeth, identify latent infections, and evaluate structures critical to your long-term oral health. Without this diagnostic foundation, we cannot provide the quality of care we are committed to delivering.

Oral cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States. Early detection remains the most effective tool for improving treatment outcomes. We perform a thorough evaluation of the head, neck, and oral soft tissues, looking for asymmetries, persistent ulcers, suspicious lesions, and other abnormalities. While certain risk factors—such as tobacco, alcohol use, and HPV—are well-established, routine screenings are essential for all adults. This portion of the exam is straightforward, evidence-based, and potentially life-saving.

We perform a detailed gum assessment, measuring the spaces between the teeth and gums to detect inflammation, gum recession, and bone loss. These metrics allow us to identify early signs of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to chronic inflammation, tooth mobility, and eventual tooth loss. Early intervention allows for minimally invasive care; delayed treatment often necessitates more complex, costly procedures.

We now know that gum disease doesn’t just affect the mouth—it’s been linked to heart health and even Alzheimer’s, making healthy gums an important part of your overall well-being.

Each tooth is evaluated for structural integrity, decay, wear, existing restorations, and alignment within the bite. We also assess the function of the jaw joints and muscles, identifying signs of imbalance that may contribute to clenching, grinding, or long-term damage. Our aim is not only to treat what is visible, but to anticipate and prevent complications before they develop.

Your cleaning is calibrated to the health of your gums and the presence of any tartar or plaque buildup. The goal is to remove mineralized deposits that accumulate between visits and reduce the bacterial load beneath the gumline. This allows the body’s natural defenses to maintain a balanced, healthy environment—critical in preventing disease progression and preserving the foundation of your teeth.

After your cleaning, we’ll offer personalized recommendations to help you care for your teeth and gums at home—whether that means refining your brushing technique, introducing specific tools, or addressing habits that may be impacting your oral health.