Exam & X-rays Check-up

Our standard dental x-rays are known as bitewing x-rays. They get their name because of the wing shape of the plastic device you bite down on to keep the x-ray film in place. At an exam and x-rays check-up you’ll usually have one bitewing x-ray taken on each side of your mouth. These help dentists to see what’s happening with your molars, or large back teeth. They’re also useful for checking for decay that’s hiding between your molars.You can ask your dentist to take panoramic x-rays as well, if they’re available at your practice. These show a full view of your whole mouth on one single x-ray. Panoramic x-rays are useful for diagnosing invisible problems like impacted teeth, jaw bone abnormalities, benign cysts, tumours, infections, abscesses and fractures.

If you only visit the dentist in an emergency or when you’re in pain, it can easily become something you try to avoid. But having a routine dental check-up means you’re less likely to need to see an emergency dentist. You’ll also probably spend less money at the dentist over time. That’s because regular preventative care helps to diagnose and treat potential dental problems early. It’s a vital part of staying on top of your oral and general health.

Your first appointment may take a little longer. That’s because your oral health is our priority. And that means we need to make sure we have all the details we need when we meet you for the first time. When we have that information, and understand you and your concerns, we can successfully care for all your oral health needs.

A second appointment is normally made for any fillings you might need. In some cases, if you only need a small filling and the dentist has time, it can be done in the same appointment.

Taking care of your oral health should be as important as anything else you do for your overall wellness and general health.We recommend daily healthy habits and regular visits to the dentist. For optimum oral health:

• Practice good oral hygiene habits at home including brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day
• Book hygiene visits with an oral hygienist or oral health therapist twice each year
• Book routine exam and x-rays visits with your dentist once each year

We recommend you book a routine check-up at least once a year as a part of your overall oral health care. It’s important to visit your dentist regularly even if you’re not in pain or you don’t have any specific concerns.