What is?
A comprehensive dental exam is a detailed assessment including visual examination of all oral tissues, digital X-rays, periodontal evaluation, tooth-by-tooth inspection, occlusion (bite) analysis, oral cancer screening, and review of dental and medical history.
Who is it for?
Everyone should have regular comprehensive exams, typically recommended for new patients, those who haven't seen a dentist in over a year, and as part of ongoing preventive care every 6 months.
What are the benefits?
Benefits include early detection of dental problems before they become painful or expensive to treat, identification of systemic health issues that show oral signs, establishment of a baseline for future comparisons, and development of personalized treatment plans.