New Patient Dental Exam vs Routine Exam: What’s the Difference?

A new patient exam generally includes the following:

• A review of your medical history to include diet, medications, past medical issues and treatments, etc.
• A review of your oral health to include past dental issues and treatments.
• A discussion of current dental issues you may be experiencing or any concerns you may have about the state of your gums and teeth. We’ll also discuss any goals you’d like to achieve to improve your oral health in the future. 
• An oral evaluation of your mouth to determine the current state of your gums and teeth. This will include digital X-rays to check for hidden dental issues.
• An oral cancer screening.

A new patient dental exam enables Dr. Ho and our team to assess your oral and general health, evaluate your current oral health needs, and learn more about your oral health objectives for the future. This information can help us develop a dental care plan to meet your ongoing dental needs.

Routine dental exams are biannual checkups to monitor your oral health. They’re generally scheduled twice annually, along with dental cleanings. Dr. Ho uses routine checkups to detect problems early so you can get prompt treatment. Routine cleanings rid your mouth of decay-causing plaque and tartar buildup. These preventive services help keep your smile in optimal health.

Dental visits help preserve your smile for the future. Routine dental services like dental cleanings and fluoride treatments help prevent problems. If dental issues do arise, Dr. Ho can catch and solve them quickly before they have a chance to ruin your smile. Through regular dental visits, you can be proactive in maintaining the long-term health and beauty of your smile.