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What is included in a dental examination?

Author: Gloss & Floss Dental Care® · Clinically reviewed by a dentist at Gloss & Floss Dental Care® · Last reviewed: 2026-06-29

Direct answer

A dental examination usually includes a clinical check of your teeth, gums, bite, old fillings or crowns, symptoms, oral hygiene and overall risk for future dental problems. X-rays may be taken when needed to detect decay, bone loss, infection or hidden damage that cannot be seen directly. The exact content depends on your age, dental history, symptoms and whether the visit is routine, urgent or part of a treatment plan.

Why a dental examination is more than a quick check

A dental examination is designed to identify both visible and hidden problems. Some dental disease develops quietly, so the dentist may need to assess tooth surfaces, gum pockets, bite forces, old restorations and radiographic findings together.

The goal is not only to find problems, but also to estimate risk. A patient with previous decay, gum disease, dry mouth, tooth wear or implant treatment may need a different examination focus than a low-risk patient with stable oral health.

What affects the answer?

  • Whether you have symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, bleeding or swelling.
  • Your history of cavities, gum disease, root canals, crowns or implants.
  • Whether X-rays are clinically needed.
  • How recently you had a dental examination.
  • Whether the visit is preventive, urgent or linked to a larger treatment plan.
  • Whether medication, dry mouth, pregnancy, diabetes or smoking affects oral health risk.

Common parts of a dental examination

This table explains what may be included during a routine or problem-focused dental examination.
Part of the examination What the dentist checks Why it matters
Teeth Decay, cracks, wear, old fillings, crowns and visible damage. Helps identify treatment needs and risk of future problems.
Gums Bleeding, inflammation, recession, pocket depth and plaque or tartar. Gum disease can progress without obvious pain.
X-rays when needed Hidden decay, bone support, infections and root or tooth structure. Some problems cannot be diagnosed reliably by visual inspection alone.
Bite and jaw function Bite pressure, tooth wear, jaw symptoms and clenching signs. Bite-related stress can damage teeth and restorations.
Treatment planning Findings, options, priorities and expected cost. Helps you understand what needs attention and what can wait.

What happens at Gloss & Floss Dental Care®?

At Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm, the examination starts with your reason for visiting and any symptoms or concerns you have. We then assess your teeth, gums, bite and previous dental work, and take X-rays when clinically indicated.

If we find something that needs treatment, we explain the diagnosis, possible options, urgency and cost structure before treatment continues. The goal is to make the examination useful, understandable and clinically responsible.

When should you book an examination sooner?

Book sooner if you have toothache, swelling, bleeding gums, a broken tooth, a lost filling, new sensitivity, bad taste, trauma or a change in bite.

Practical advice: Do not wait for severe pain. Many dental problems are easier to treat when detected earlier.

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need X-rays at a dental examination?

No. X-rays are taken when clinically needed. They can help detect hidden decay, bone loss, infection or other changes that are not visible in the mouth.

How often should I have a dental examination?

That depends on your risk level. Some patients need yearly checks, while others may need more or less frequent follow-up depending on gum health, decay risk and medical factors.

Can a dental examination include treatment?

Sometimes a minor treatment or emergency measure can be started during the same visit, but larger treatment usually requires a clear plan first.

Will I receive a cost estimate after the examination?

If treatment is needed, you should receive an explanation of the recommended steps and expected cost before you decide.

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Disclaimer

This article provides general information from Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm. It does not replace an individual dental examination, diagnosis, X-ray assessment or treatment plan.