Tests and Procedures

Dental exam

Results

After your exam, the dentist or hygienist will discuss your oral health, including your risk of tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health problems, and preventive measures you can take to improve and protect your oral health.

The dentist or hygienist will also recommend when to return for a follow-up visit. If you are at high risk of tooth decay or gum disease or have other oral health problems, the dentist or hygienist might recommend frequent checkups. Treatment might be needed to address any of these findings and may be explained in a follow- up consultation appointment. Occasionally, some treatment might be conducted from the work of dental specialists depending on the complexity of the care suggested by your dentist. Just as the dentist uses a team to provide care, more complex care needs might include work from other dentists specializing in specific treatment such as oral surgery or gum treatment.