Dental Examinations

All About

Dental Examinations

Regular dental examinations are essential for maintaining excellent oral health and identifying potential concerns at an early stage.

At Hilltop Dental Practice, we take a thorough, preventative approach to every examination. During your appointment, we will carefully assess:

• Each tooth, checking that it is healthy and free from decay.
• Existing fillings and restorations to ensure they remain secure, comfortable and functional.
• Your gum health, including any signs of inflammation or gum disease.
• The soft tissues of your mouth, including screening for unusual lumps, bumps or abnormalities.
• Your oral hygiene and home care routine.
• Your individual risk factors for tooth decay and gum disease.

Personalised care and advice

Following your examination, we will provide tailored guidance to help you maintain and improve your oral health, including:

• A clear overview of your current oral health.
• Practical advice on improving or maintaining your oral hygiene routine.
• An explanation of your personal risk factors.
• Recommendations for any treatment that may be required.
• Guidance on how often you should attend future examinations.

Top 10 FAQs

1. What happens during a dental examination?

Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks and jaw, checking for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer and other dental concerns. They will also discuss your oral health with you and provide practical advice to help you keep your mouth healthy.

2. How often should I have a dental examination?

Your dentist will recommend how often you should attend for routine examinations. This may range from every three months to once a year, depending on the health of your teeth and gums and whether there are any concerns that need monitoring.

3. Are dental examinations uncomfortable?

No. A dental examination is usually straightforward and comfortable. If you have particularly sensitive teeth or feel anxious, please let us know so that we can help you feel at ease throughout your visit.

4. Why are dental X-rays needed?

Dental X-rays help detect concerns that may not be visible during a visual examination, such as decay between teeth, bone loss, impacted teeth, infections and cysts.

5. How long does a dental examination take?

A new patient examination usually takes between 30 and 40 minutes. A routine examination usually takes approximately 20 minutes.

6. What should I do before my dental appointment?

Please clean your teeth thoroughly and complete your medical history using the link we send before your visit. If you have recently attended another dental practice and had X-rays taken within the previous year, you may also arrange for your dental records and X-rays to be sent to us.

7. Can a dentist detect oral cancer?

Yes. As part of your dental examination, your dentist will carry out an oral cancer screening, checking your lips, tongue, cheeks, throat and oral tissues for any unusual changes.

8. What if the dentist finds a problem?

Your dentist will explain any findings clearly and discuss the treatment options available to manage the concern. If treatment is recommended, we will provide a treatment plan outlining what is involved, the expected appointment length and the cost. You are welcome to ask as many questions as you need before deciding how you would like to proceed.

9. Why are regular examinations important?

Regular examinations help identify problems early, prevent more serious dental conditions and support long-term oral health. Early detection can also help avoid more complex treatment in the future.

10. Why is keeping your mouth healthy important?

Untreated dental disease can lead to pain, infection and tooth loss. Research has also linked poor oral health with wider health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions, rheumatoid arthritis and low birth weight in babies.