General & Preventive Dentistry
An oral examination is a systematic assessment of the teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, jaw joints and surrounding tissues. It looks for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, worn or cracked teeth, and changes in the soft tissues that may need further attention.
It is suitable for new patients, for regular reviews, and whenever you notice sores, lumps, persistent discomfort or changes in your mouth. The findings guide whether monitoring, preventive care or treatment is appropriate.
Benefits
- Screens for common oral conditions early
- Records a baseline of your oral health
- Identifies risk factors such as diet or habits
- Guides preventive and treatment decisions
- Provides clear answers to your questions
What to Expect
- Review of symptoms and medical history
- Examination of teeth, gums and bite
- Check of the tongue, cheeks, palate and neck
- Gum health and mobility assessment
- Diagnostic images where needed
- Explanation of findings and recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions
A typical examination takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your history and whether X-rays are needed.
A soft-tissue check for unusual patches, ulcers or lumps is a standard part of a careful examination. Anything suspicious may be reviewed or referred for further assessment.
Bring a list of your medications, any previous dental records or X-rays, and a note of the symptoms or questions you would like to discuss.