Comprehensive Assessment in Bay City, MI

At Bay City Dental Center, our primary goal is to ensure you get the best, most comprehensive dental care in a relaxed, comfortable, and family-friendly environment. For new patients, the first step is for our experienced dentist, Dr. Matthew Ward, to complete a comprehensive assessment. This examination allows Dr. Ward to assess the general health and condition of your teeth and identify any possible issues that need treatment. He will ask you about your dental history and any problems you may be experiencing and then examine your teeth. He will take X-rays of your teeth and then clean your teeth to get you started on the right foot. If you're in Bay City, MI, or the Tri-Cities area and need an experienced dentist with the skills and tools to provide first-class dental care, call us today to schedule an appointment. Let Dr. Ward help ensure the health of your teeth to keep you smiling for years to come.

A comprehensive assessment at Bay City Dental Center in Bay City, MI offers a number of great benefits to protect your beautiful smile, including:

• Identifying dental issues early
• Treating any existing dental problems
• Cleaning your teeth and gums
• Brightening your smile
• Freshening your breath
• Protecting your teeth and oral health
• Comprehensive assessments are quick, easy, and comfortable

A comprehensive dental assessment at Bay City Dental Center involves a thorough evaluation of a patient's oral health, including the teeth, gums, and jaw. This visit is a vital first step for new patients, individuals who haven't had a dental check-up in an extended period, and those experiencing specific dental concerns. Patients undergoing procedures like orthodontics, implants, or cosmetic dentistry may also benefit from such assessments. Ultimately, anyone interested in understanding the complete status of their oral health can be a candidate for a comprehensive dental assessment at our Bay City, MI office.

When you come in for your comprehensive assessment, you'll be asked to fill out a form that includes information on your medical history, dental history, where you received dental care, and when you last visited a dentist. If you have concerns about pain or want to know more about elective or cosmetic treatment, this is the perfect time to ask.

Then you'll be seated in a comfortable room, where our caring team will help you relax and feel at ease. Next comes your comprehensive assessment, which includes three things:

• Dr. Ward or one of his experienced dental hygienists will carefully examine your teeth and gums. He'll take note of any existing fillings or restorative work, visually assess the condition of your oral health, and make notes on work that may need to be done.
• Next, you'll have a full set of x-rays done, which takes images of your teeth and jaw from every angle for a complete picture of your dental health. Your x-ray images will let us know if any urgent issues need to be addressed or if there is an underlying issue we can't see that needs to be addressed.
• Lastly, to get your teeth in the best possible shape going forward, you'll receive a thorough dental cleaning. Dental cleanings are recommended at least twice a year and are part of every new patient appointment.

When your new patient comprehensive assessment is complete, Dr. Ward will give you his recommendation for a personalized oral treatment plan. If your teeth, gums, and jaws are generally in good condition, this might simply be to schedule your next annual check-up. If you need more work done or have an issue that needs to be addressed, we may schedule additional appointments for routine maintenance, cavity repair, restoration, or other procedures.

What is the difference between a comprehensive assessment and a regular dental exam?

A comprehensive assessment and a dental exam are very similar and share many of the same components; however, a comprehensive assessment is more common for a new patient and is typically more in-depth than a regular dental exam. It usually includes a thorough dental exam, a conversation about your dental health and history, dental x-rays, and a teeth cleaning. If you have an urgent dental issue, Dr. Ward may also schedule you for an appointment to address the issue promptly.

How long does a comprehensive assessment take?

Depending on the results of your exam and what is needed to thoroughly evaluate your oral health, a comprehensive assessment typically takes about 45 minutes.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for a comprehensive assessment?

There isn't really very much you need to do to prepare for a comprehensive dental assessment other than to continue your normal brushing and flossing routine, think of any questions or concerns you may have for Dr. Ward, bring any dental records you may have, and arrive at the office a little early to fill out any necessary paperwork.

At Bay City Dental Center, Dr. Ward and his knowledgeable staff want all their patients to receive unmatched personalized dental care. If you're in Bay City, MI, or the Tri-Cities area, and are looking for an experienced dentist with a gentle touch, call us today to schedule an appointment. Let us help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for a smile that's worth smiling about.