Dental Exams in Bay City, MI

Keeping up with regular oral examinations lets you take a proactive position to preserve the health of your smile. A standard dental exam at Bay City Dental Center diagnoses tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and various other conditions that may influence your dental and total health. Generally performed at regular teeth cleaning appointments, comprehensive exams let Dr. Matthew R. Ward assess the teeth, gums, bite, TMJ, and additional oral structures. That way, he can detect any conditions and reduce the side effects early on. If you want to maintain the health and appearance of your teeth, please come in for a thorough oral exam at our Bay City, MI office!

Visiting your dentist for regular dental exams and cleanings is one of the most valuable tools you have for protecting and preserving your oral and dental health over time. Some of the primary benefits of routine dental exams in Bay City, MI include:

• Allows for the early detection and treatment of dental and oral conditions
• Can help to prevent the development or worsening of dental and oral problems, like tooth decay and periodontal disease
• Keeps your teeth stronger, healthier, and more attractive for longer
• Provides an opportunity to have any appliances or restorations evaluated, repaired, replaced, or adjusted

Bay City, MI residents of every age would benefit from having dental exams a minimum of once every year for comprehensive care. Dental exams should also be carried out when needed to assess oral discomfort, injury, and additional conditions that could form between appointments. Gum disease— the central factor in missing teeth— and tooth decay may not cause noticeable signs until the more advanced stages. When dental conditions are found early, we can generally offer a more diverse range of procedures for treatment.

The ADA (also known as the American Dental Association) suggests that all children go to their dentist before they are one year old. To treat patients at a young age, we can focus on a range of concerns(like tooth formation and thumb-sucking) and lead you in caring for your little one's teeth and gum line as their oral structures change. Routine comprehensive oral exams might help your children establish effective oral habits early on and enable them to achieve healthy smiles for the future.

Yearly exams at Bay City Dental Center begin with a review of your health record. A member of our team might also speak with you about any health issues or cosmetic smile goals you have to learn more about your total oral wellness. During particular annual exams, Dr. Ward may perform a series of advanced x-rays to review the health of your teeth and jawbone. He can then conduct a screening for oral cancer, evaluate the evenness of your arches and jaws, examine your teeth for cracks, and look for any wear of your dental fixtures. Dr. Ward may also perform a gum assessment to detect periodontal disease.

What does a dental exam include?
During your dental exam with Dr. Ward, he’ll assess the overall health of your teeth and gums, specifically checking for:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Oral cancer
• Other possible issues

Generally, a comprehensive dental exam is performed during regular teeth cleaning appointments.

How long is a dental exam?
The dental exam typically takes about 30 minutes, with the entire procedure including the cleaning taking about an hour to 90 minutes.

Does a dental exam hurt?
A dental exam has virtually no risk of pain or discomfort, but some people with sensitive teeth may find the cleaning portion somewhat uncomfortable.

How often should I get a dental exam?
According to the ADA (American Dental Association), you should have a routine dental exam at least once a year.

Is a dental X-ray necessary every visit?
At Bay City Dental Center, dental X-rays are not always performed during each visit. Generally, they are taken during your initial examination and then periodically afterward based on your oral health condition. The purpose is to spot any underlying issues not visible during a visual inspection.

Does insurance cover the dental exams at Bay City Dental Center?
Most dental insurance plans cover regular dental exams and cleanings. However, the coverage may vary based on your specific plan. We recommend contacting your insurance provider or speaking with our administrative staff to understand your coverage better.

Attaining a healthy smile takes more than simply visiting a dental practitioner if you have a concern. Yearly dental exams at Bay City Dental Center create a path for early diagnosis and care for oral conditions and are vital in preserving your dental wellness. Plan your family's yearly oral assessments with Dr. Matthew R. Ward at our Bay City, MI facility today.