Exams & X-Rays

Routine dental exams are important to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Additionally, they can help to avoid the financial costs associated with large treatment plans later on. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends twice yearly checkups for people of all ages.  At this frequency, most problems can be caught while they remain in an early stage.

Additionally, your dentist will take diagnostic x-rays to reveal any other hidden problems that are not self evident during routine clinical exams.  Bitewing x-rays are typically taken every 12 months and a full mouth set of x-rays are taken every 5 years. 

How it’s done

The dentist will first examine your mouth visually.  He will use the information gained during this “clinical exam” and pair it with the information gained from the x-rays to provide him with a clear picture of your overall dental health.  Dr. Ritzcovan and his hygiene team will review other important items, such as:  

• Medical history: The dentist will assess any new medical conditions or illnesses that may affect your dental health.
• Examination of tooth decay: Your teeth with be checked individually for any signs of decay, cracks or any other pathology.
• Oral cancer screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues and gums will be checked for any signs of oral cancer.
• Gum disease evaluation: Your gums and bone will be evaluated for any evidence of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
• Examination of existing restorations: Existing fillings, crowns, bridges, implants or any other restorations will be evaluated thoroughly.