• Overview
• General Dentistry
  • Bad Breath Treatment
  • Bonding
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Dental Exams
  • Dental Implants
  • Dental X-Rays
  • Fluoride Treatment
  • Professional Cleanings
  • Oral Cancer Screenings
  • Sealants
  • Dentures and Partials
• Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Fillings
  • Lumineers
  • Tooth Whitening
  • Veneers
  • Tooth Colored Fillings
• Special Therapy
  • Children's Dentistry
  • Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
  • Emergency Care
  • Endodontics
  • Extractions
  • Gum Disease Treatments
  • Gum Surgery
  • Invisalign Orthodontics
  • Periodontics
  • Root Canal Therapy
  • Sedation Dentistry
• Appliance Dentistry
  • Athletic Sports Guards
  • Dentures and Partials
  • Night Guards

Dental Exams

What kind of dental exams do you offer at NHCCD?

Different examinations will give you information based on your situation and needs so that you can make good health care decisions for yourself and your children.

A Comprehensive Exam is our standard of care for all new patients joining our practice. It gives you and the dentist the most information about the state of your oral health. You may also benefit from a “comp exam” when there has been an interruption in your routine of dental care, or if you’ve had significant changes in your health over 3-5 years. (Read more about our New Patient visit here.)

Children as young as one year old can benefit from an exam to “count teeth” and help them be comfortable visiting the dentist. And we’ll support you moms and dads with information and demonstrations in caring for your child’s teeth and gums.

Periodic Exams are shorter “check-ups” normally done during your regular visits with your hygienist for professional cleanings. Your dentist checks all restorations and examines your teeth and gums for health and disease. It's a great time for you to ask questions to make sure you’re on track for the level of health you want to maintain.

Focused Exams are offered for the evaluation of a specific problem or an emergency. Our goal is that none of our patients have a need for emergency care, which is why we encourage prevention with regular cleanings and exams. Your general dentist may refer you to one of our specialist dentists for an exam focused on a certain area or for a specific treatment recommendation. You’ll always receive information from these exams to help guide you in your treatment decisions.

We also offer Denture Consultations and Comprehensive Periodontal (Gum) Exams for patients who will benefit from those services.

What is involved in a comprehensive dental examination?

During your comprehensive dental examination, you will have the benefit of learning all about your oral health.  Some of this information comes from:

• Examination of your teeth: Your tooth surfaces are examined for decay, cracks or other problems.
• Examination of existing restorations: We look at the condition of any existing fillings, crowns, etc.
• Gum health evaluation: We check your gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease. (Up to 70% of people have some signs of periodontal disease, which can be easily treated if caught in the early stages.)
• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): X-rays allow your dentist to detect decay, tumors, cysts and bone loss.  X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.  We use digital x-rays to reduce radiation by up to 90% and allow instant imaging on the computer screen in your treatment room.
• Oral cancer screening: You'll have your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues and gums examined for any signs of abnormalities.

What happens after my comprehensive oral examination?

After the dentist has had time to closely review your x-rays and photographs, you will have the opportunity to meet again to discuss the findings.  You’ll learn what areas are healthy as well as any areas of concern.  Digital photographs of your teeth and mouth allow you to see exactly what your dentist sees and questions are encouraged. Your goals and concerns are kept in mind for any treatment options that your dentist may recommend. Any treatment plan that you both agree upon will be fully discussed and given to you in writing.

If I have a lot of problems, how do we decide what to do first?

Your dentist will listen to you and discuss your wishes and priorities at your initial appointment as well as at the review of findings. We encourage you to share your dental goals and questions with us so that they can be prioritized appropriately into your overall treatment plan.  We'll also ask about your budget in terms of time and money so you're totally comfortable with the plan of care.

How can I schedule a comprehensive oral examination?

We are always welcoming new patients! If you are interested in scheduling a complete oral examination, please feel free to contact the office at (603) 262-1299 or e-mail us at info@NHCCD.com.