What Is Included in a Comprehensive Dental Exam?

Searching "dental exams near me"? Learn what's included in a comprehensive new patient exam at Perfected Smiles in Rochelle Park, from digital x-rays to oral cancer screenings.

Your First Step to a Lifetime of Health

When you search for "dental exams near me," you're likely looking for a new dental home and want to ensure you're receiving thorough, high-quality care. At Perfected Smiles in Rochelle Park, NJ, we believe that a comprehensive dental exam is the most important appointment you will have at our practice. It goes far beyond a quick "look and see." This initial visit is the foundation upon which we build your entire personalized care plan, focusing on proactive preventive dentistry to protect your smile and overall health for years to come. Dr. Jason Schepis and Dr. Ryan Maher have built our new patient experience around this principle of thorough, data-driven diagnostics.

The Clinical Examination: A Tooth-by-Tooth Assessment

Your comprehensive exam begins with a detailed visual and tactile evaluation by your dentist. This is a multi-point inspection to establish a complete baseline of your oral health. A critical, life-saving component of every new patient exam is our thorough oral cancer screening. Dr. Schepis or Dr. Maher will carefully examine your lips, cheeks, tongue, palate, and throat for any signs of abnormalities. Next, they will conduct a meticulous tooth-by-tooth check, inspecting for any signs of decay (cavities), hairline fractures, or wear patterns that could indicate issues like teeth grinding (bruxism). They will also assess the integrity of any existing dental work, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges, to ensure they are secure and functioning properly.

Advanced Diagnostics: Seeing the Full Picture

What we can see on the surface is only half the story. To get a complete understanding of your health, we use advanced diagnostic tools. A full set of low-radiation digital x-rays is essential. These images allow Dr. Schepis and Dr. Maher to see beneath the enamel and gums, revealing the health of your jawbone, the roots of your teeth, and any potential decay forming between teeth or under old fillings. We also perform a comprehensive gum disease evaluation. This involves gently measuring the small spaces (pockets) between your teeth and gums, a process called periodontal charting. This simple, painless measurement is the only definitive way to diagnose gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) in its earliest, most treatable stages, which is a key part of your preventive care.

The Consultation: Your Personalized Treatment Plan

The final and most important step of your comprehensive dental exam is the consultation. After all the data has been gathered, your dentist will sit down with you in a comfortable, private setting. They will display your digital x-rays on a screen and walk you through their findings in clear, easy-to-understand language. This is your time to ask questions and discuss your personal smile goals. Together, you will "co-create" a personalized treatment plan. For many, this may simply be a routine schedule of preventive dental cleanings. For others, it might involve a plan to address restorative needs or explore cosmetic dentistry. You will leave this appointment feeling informed, empowered, and confident, with a clear path forward to achieving your healthiest smile.

Schedule Your New Patient Exam Today

Don't settle for a quick glance. A thorough, comprehensive dental exam is the key to long-term health and preventing costly problems. If you're looking for a new patient exam or "dental cleaning near me" in the Rochelle Park, NJ, area, we invite you to experience the Perfected Smiles difference. We are committed to providing meticulous, personalized care from your very first visit. Contact our office today to schedule your comprehensive dental exam. We look forward to welcoming you to our General Dentistry family.

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