Dental Exam

A dental examination is more than a search for cavities. It is a structured evaluation of the teeth, gums, bite, existing dental work and oral tissues, combined with your medical and dental history and any symptoms or concerns you have noticed.

What happens at a comprehensive dental exam?

For a new patient or when a more complete evaluation is needed, Dr. Sharma reviews your health history, medications, allergies, previous dental treatment and current concerns. The examination may include the teeth and existing restorations, gums and periodontal support, bite and jaw function and the soft tissues of the mouth.

How are the gums evaluated?

Periodontal evaluation may include measurements around the teeth, assessment of bleeding and inflammation, gum recession, tooth mobility and review of bone levels on appropriate radiographs. These findings help distinguish healthy gums, gingivitis and periodontitis.

Is oral cancer screening part of the exam?

We visually and manually evaluate the oral soft tissues for changes that may warrant monitoring or referral. A routine dental examination cannot rule out every disease, so persistent ulcers, lumps, unexplained bleeding, numbness or other concerning changes may require additional evaluation.

Will I need dental X rays?

Not necessarily at every visit. Dental X rays are selected when they are expected to provide useful diagnostic information that cannot be obtained from the clinical examination alone. The number and timing of images depend on symptoms, age, cavity risk, gum health, previous treatment and the availability of recent diagnostic images.

Does every exam include a cleaning?

No. A dental examination and a professional cleaning are related but separate services. The appropriate type of dental cleaning depends on the condition of the gums. Patients with periodontitis may need periodontal therapy or maintenance rather than a routine prophylaxis.

How often should you have a dental exam?

The interval is individualized. Some patients benefit from more frequent monitoring because of active disease or higher risk. Others may need less frequent examination once their oral health is stable. We base the schedule on your findings rather than a one-size-fits-all rule.

Dental exams in Palo Alto

Our approach is diagnosis first. Dr. Sharma will explain what he sees, what matters and which findings simply need monitoring before recommending treatment.

Request an appointment for a comprehensive dental evaluation.