Check Up - Exam

What is a Dental Exam?

A dental exam is about much more than just checking your teeth — it’s a vital part of protecting your overall health and wellbeing.

At Willerby Dental Care, our routine dental examinations adhere to the gold-standard recommendations set by NICE—the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. These comprehensive assessments are designed to identify potential issues early, reflecting our commitment to preventative dentistry, long-term oral health, and your continued peace of mind.

What Does a Dental Exam Include?

• Thorough check of your teeth and gums to detect signs of teeth grinding (bruxism), decay, or other concerns
• Oral cancer screening to look for early signs of abnormalities in the mouth, tongue, lips, and soft tissues
• Lymph node palpation (gentle examination of your neck and jaw) to identify any unusual lumps or swelling that could indicate underlying issues
• Bite and jaw assessment to ensure proper alignment and comfort
• Personalised advice tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and oral hygiene habits

Why Is It Important?

Oral health is deeply connected to overall well-being—many systemic diseases (affecting the whole body, not just one part) can first show signs in the mouth. That’s why early detection is so vital. A routine dental examination doesn’t just safeguard your teeth; it serves as an essential checkpoint for identifying broader health concerns before they become serious.

In most cases, we recommend attending a dental exam twice a year. On occasion, depending on individual needs, we may advise slightly more or less frequent visits to ensure optimal care.

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What to Expect: Step by Step

1. Discussion — we'll ask about any concerns, changes since your last visit, and your general health, since some medical conditions and medications can affect your oral health.
2. Examination — a thorough visual and physical check of your teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissues, following NICE guidance on examination intervals.
3. Screening — oral cancer screening and lymph node palpation, checking for anything unusual that would need further investigation.
4. Advice and planning — we'll talk through anything found, agree next steps together, and confirm when to book your next visit.

Preparing for Your Exam

There's nothing special you need to do to prepare — just brush and floss as normal beforehand. It's helpful to note down any specific concerns or changes you've noticed (sensitivity, discomfort, changes in your bite) so we can make sure they're covered during your visit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have a dental exam? We generally recommend twice a year, though this can vary slightly depending on your individual oral health needs.

Is a dental exam painful? No — it's a straightforward visual and physical check with no discomfort involved.

Do I need X-rays every visit? No — X-rays are taken at intervals appropriate to your risk level, not at every appointment.

What does a dental exam check for? Your teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissues are all checked, including an oral cancer screening and lymph node check.

What if a problem is found? We'll explain what we've found in plain terms and agree a plan together — there's never any pressure to proceed immediately.

How long does an exam take? A routine exam is typically a short appointment, usually well under 30 minutes.

Can a dental exam pick up health issues beyond my teeth? Yes — many systemic health conditions can first show early signs in the mouth, which is one reason regular exams matter.