What to Expect During Your Dental Exam & X-rays Near High Ridge

June 7, 2025

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Ever wonder what *really* happens when you come in for your dental check-up?
It’s more than just a quick peek!
At Dorris Dental, we want you to feel comfortable and informed about every step.
We’re located at 12658 S Military Trl Suite 104, Boynton Beach, FL 33436, USA, and we’re here to make your visit as smooth as possible.

What to Expect During Your Dental Exam & X-rays Near High Ridge

So, you’ve scheduled your appointment… great!
But what’s next?
Here’s a breakdown of what you can anticipate during your dental exam and X-rays with us.

The Initial Check-In

First things first, we’ll welcome you and make sure your information is up-to-date.

  • We’ll confirm your medical history.
  • We’ll ask about any concerns or changes you’ve noticed since your last visit.
  • Insurance information will be verified, or we can discuss our financing options.

The Dental Exam: A Thorough Look

This isn’t just a surface-level glance!
We’re checking for potential problems you might not even feel yet.

  • Visual Examination: We’ll examine your teeth, gums, and overall mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or other abnormalities.
  • Checking Existing Restorations: We’ll inspect any fillings, crowns, or other restorations to make sure they’re still in good shape.
    Think of it like a car inspection, but for your teeth!
  • Gum Evaluation: We’ll measure the pockets around your teeth to check for signs of gum disease (periodontitis).
    Catching this early is key! More information on gum treatment is available on our website.

Dental X-Rays: Seeing Beneath the Surface

X-rays are a crucial part of a comprehensive exam.
They allow us to see what’s happening *underneath* the surface of your teeth and gums.

  • Why X-rays are Important: They help us detect cavities between teeth, bone loss, impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth), and other problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
    Learn more about the importance of understanding dental x-rays safety.
  • Types of X-rays We Use:
    • Bitewing X-rays: These show the crowns of your upper and lower teeth in one image and are great for detecting cavities between teeth.
    • Periapical X-rays: These show the entire tooth, from crown to root, and are helpful for diagnosing problems below the gum line.
    • Panoramic X-rays: This type of X-ray provides a broad view of your entire mouth, including your jawbone and sinuses.
      They’re often used to assess wisdom teeth or plan for dental implants.
  • Safety First: We use digital X-rays, which emit significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays.
    We also use lead aprons and thyroid collars to further minimize your exposure.

Discussing Your Treatment Plan

After the exam and X-rays, we’ll sit down with you to discuss our findings.

  • We’ll explain any problems we’ve found and recommend treatment options.
  • We’ll answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have.
  • We’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and budget. Check our latest promotions.

Maintaining Your Smile

Keeping your smile healthy is an ongoing process!
We’ll give you personalized tips on how to keep your teeth and gums in top condition between visits.

  • Proper brushing and flossing techniques.
  • Recommendations for dental products (toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash).
  • Dietary advice to minimize your risk of cavities.

FAQs About Dental Exams and X-Rays

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

How often should I get a dental exam and X-rays?

The general recommendation is to get a dental exam and cleaning every six months.
Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease or other oral health problems.
X-ray frequency depends on your individual needs and risk factors.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes!
Modern digital X-rays use very low levels of radiation.
We take precautions to minimize your exposure, such as using lead aprons and thyroid collars.

What if I’m pregnant?

It’s important to let us know if you’re pregnant or think you might be.
We may postpone X-rays until after your pregnancy.
However, if you have a dental emergency, we can take X-rays with appropriate safety precautions.

Does a dental exam hurt?

Not at all!
The exam itself is painless.
You might feel some pressure during the gum evaluation, but it shouldn’t be painful.

How long does a dental exam and X-ray appointment take?

Typically, a routine exam and X-ray appointment takes about an hour.
However, this can vary depending on your individual needs.

We hope this helps you feel more prepared for your next visit to Dorris Dental!
We’re committed to providing you with the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and friendly environment.
If you’re near High Ridge and it’s time for your check-up, schedule an appointment with us today!
Remember, taking care of your teeth is an investment in your overall health.
We look forward to seeing you!

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