The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) defines a "comprehensive dental and oral exam" as "an extensive evaluation and the recording of all extraoral, intraoral and soft tissues."
The CDA recommend that all new patients have a comprehensive dental exam on their first visit, and established patients undergo this exam every 3 years.
Overview of a Comprehensive Dental Exam:
- Extensive medical and dental history
- Periodontal exam (gum and bones supporting the teeth)
- Dental Exam (teeth)
- Head and Neck Cancer Exam (soft tissues of mouth, throat and surrounding structures)
- Occlusal Exam (Bite analysis)
- TMJ Exam (jaw joints)
- Radiographic Exam (x-rays and various scans)
- Esthetic Exam (appearance of teeth and gums related to the face)