Oral Screening

Oral screening is the fundamental cornerstone of preventive dental care at Smilesmith Dentistry, crucial for maintaining optimal oral health and detecting potential issues early. During a comprehensive oral screening, our experienced dentists meticulously examine your entire oral cavity. This includes a thorough visual inspection of your teeth for signs of decay, cracks, or wear, an assessment of your gums for any indicators of gingivitis or more advanced gum disease, and a careful check of your tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat for any abnormal lesions or changes. We also palpate your jaw and neck to detect any swelling or tenderness.

Complementing the visual examination, digital X-rays are often taken when necessary, providing invaluable insights into areas not visible to the naked eye, such as between teeth, under existing fillings, and within the jawbone. This allows for the early detection of small cavities, bone loss, infections, or even serious conditions like oral cancer, often before any symptoms appear. The benefits are immense: early detection allows for less invasive, more effective, and often less costly treatments, preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems and safeguarding your long-term oral and overall health.