This is a photograph featuring a man with his mouth wide open, seemingly expressing surprise or shock, while wearing blue gloves and holding his face with both hands. The background is blurred but appears to be an indoor setting.

Oral Exams

At the office of Arevalo Dental Studio, we take a preventive-first approach because the best dental care is often the care you never have to intensify. Regular oral exams give our team the opportunity to identify small issues before they become bigger problems and to reinforce healthy habits that protect your smile for years to come. During these visits we combine a careful clinical assessment with evidence-based screenings — including oral cancer checks — and clear guidance on hygiene, diet, and lifestyle choices that affect dental health.

Our goal is straightforward: keep your teeth, gums, and supporting structures functioning well and looking their best. To do that, we offer a full suite of preventive services delivered with modern diagnostic tools and a patient-first mindset. Whether you are bringing in a child for their first exam or returning for routine maintenance, we aim to make the process efficient, informative, and reassuring.

Every exam at Arevalo Dental Studio is a partnership. We listen to your concerns, explain what we find in plain language, and outline practical next steps so you can make informed choices about your care. Preventive dentistry isn’t just a single visit — it’s a plan we build together to protect your oral health over time.

What to Expect During Your First Comprehensive Oral Exam

Your initial exam sets a baseline for future care and gives us a complete picture of your oral health. We'll begin by reviewing your medical and dental history to understand any conditions, medications, or past treatments that could influence your mouth. This background helps our team tailor the exam and prioritize screenings that are most relevant to you.

The hands-on portion of your visit includes a detailed inspection of teeth, gums, and soft tissues, plus an evaluation of bite and jaw function. We check for signs of wear from clenching or grinding, examine the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for restricted movement or tenderness, and assess gum health to identify early periodontal concerns. If there are areas that need closer review, we’ll recommend diagnostic images to reveal what can’t be seen on the surface.

We also perform a routine oral cancer screening as part of the exam, looking for any unusual lesions or tissue changes in the mouth, face, and neck. If anything requires follow-up, we explain the findings, discuss the options, and help you understand the timeline and rationale for any recommended next steps.

Before you leave, we summarize our observations and provide practical, personalized advice — from homecare techniques to short-term and long-term prevention strategies. Our aim is for you to walk out feeling informed and confident about the plan moving forward.

A person receiving dental care with a focus on the dental professional performing the procedure.

How Oral Health Connects to Whole-Body Wellness

Your mouth is an early warning system for many health conditions. What starts as a minor dental issue can sometimes reflect or even influence broader systemic problems. Research increasingly shows links between oral inflammation and conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which is why a thorough oral exam is an important part of maintaining overall well-being.

During an exam, our clinicians look for signs that may indicate wider health concerns — persistent dry mouth, unexplained ulcers, or changes in tissue texture, for example. These clues don’t serve as a diagnosis on their own, but they help us identify when a referral or medical evaluation may be appropriate so you get the comprehensive care you deserve.

Because the relationship between oral and systemic health goes both ways, patients with certain medical conditions or medications may require modified prevention plans. We take those factors into account when recommending screening frequency, hygiene methods, or specific preventive therapies to minimize risk and preserve function.

Being attentive to oral health is part of staying healthy overall. By catching and addressing oral issues early, we reduce the chance that they will contribute to more complex medical problems down the road.

Why Professional Cleanings Are Essential — Not Optional

Brushing and flossing at home are the foundation of good oral health, but even the most diligent patients benefit from professional cleanings. Dental hygienists can remove hardened tartar and bacterial biofilm from places a toothbrush can't reach, and that removal is critical because plaque buildup is the main driver of cavities and gum disease.

Professional cleanings also give us the chance to reassess your oral health at regular intervals. By maintaining routine visits — typically every six months unless your situation calls for a different schedule — we can monitor changes, catch early signs of decay or periodontal disease, and intervene before treatment becomes more invasive.

Cleanings are also a teaching moment. Our team demonstrates homecare techniques tailored to your needs, recommends tools that address specific problem areas, and explains how lifestyle factors such as diet and tobacco use influence the risk of dental disease. For children, routine visits lay the groundwork for a lifetime of good habits and help us track dental development so that any need for orthodontic guidance can be identified early.

Ultimately, professional maintenance preserves both the health and longevity of your smile. It’s preventive care that pays off in fewer procedures, less discomfort, and a more confident bite and appearance.

In the image, a woman is seated on a dental chair with her eyes closed, receiving a dental treatment. A dentist is holding up a mirror to show her teeth, while another person appears to be taking a photo of the moment.

What Modern Dental X-Rays Reveal About Hidden Problems

Visual inspection is essential, but radiographs let us see what lies beneath the surface. Digital x-rays reveal cavities between teeth, infections at the root tips, bone levels around teeth, and developmental issues that can’t be detected in a routine visual exam. These images are a critical component of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

Digital radiography reduces radiation exposure and delivers images instantly, so we can review findings with you during the same visit. High-quality digital images also make it easier to compare changes over time, share information with specialists if needed, and maintain a detailed record of your oral health.

Beyond standard two-dimensional x-rays, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides three-dimensional views when more complex evaluation is required. CBCT can be particularly helpful for surgical planning, implant placement, and assessing jaw anatomy in cases where precise spatial detail matters.

We recommend imaging selectively and thoughtfully — using the minimum necessary diagnostics to get the information we need while keeping your safety and comfort in mind.

A man sitting in a dental chair with a smile while holding a pink object, receiving dental care from a professional in a white coat and mask.

How Different X-Ray Types Help Us Make Better Decisions

Different radiographs serve different purposes, and choosing the right one depends on the clinical question at hand. Small periapical films are excellent for evaluating a single tooth and its root, bitewings are ideal for spotting decay between teeth, and a full mouth series gives a comprehensive look at all tooth-bearing areas when a detailed baseline is needed.

A panoramic film (panorex) captures the entire upper and lower jaws in one sweeping image, which is helpful for viewing impacted or developing teeth and assessing jawbone health. Cephalometric films offer a profile view used primarily in orthodontic planning to evaluate facial proportions and growth patterns.

For complex cases, three-dimensional CBCT imaging gives us precise information about bone density, nerve location, and spatial relationships — data that can improve surgical outcomes and implant placement accuracy. Our team discusses the benefits of any recommended imaging and how it contributes to a clear, safe treatment plan.

Diagnostic imaging is a tool we use to enhance care, not a routine we perform without purpose. When images are indicated, we explain what they show and how those findings guide our recommendations.

If you have questions about what to expect from an oral exam or which screenings are right for you, contact us for more information. We’re here to help you protect your health with thoughtful, evidence-based care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you accepting new patients?

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Yes. We always welcome new patients and their families for care. Feel free to give us a call or reach out to us online to schedule a first visit or for any additional information on our office. We look forward to hearing from you!

How often do I need to get a dental checkup?

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Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings help ensure your smile remains in tip-top condition and that any developing problems receive the prompt care they require. While it's a good idea to schedule a checkup and cleaning twice a year, longer or shorter intervals between routine visits depend on your specific needs.

What if I haven't been to the dentist in a long time?

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We understand that life gets complicated and busy, and for various reasons, you haven't been able to get to the dentist for care. Don't worry; it's always a good time to get back in touch with the health of your smile.

At Arevalo Dental Studio, we offer skilled and compassionate care to address a wide range of dental needs. Whether you need a simple checkup and cleaning, restorations, periodontal treatment, root canal therapy, or the replacement of missing teeth to get your smile back into shape, we provide precise, gentle, stress-free treatment to give you a smile that is as beautiful as it is healthy.

Give us a call today; we're happy to address all your questions and concerns about getting your smile back in tip-top condition.

Should pregnant women get a dental checkup?

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For pregnant women, practicing good oral care and seeing the dentist to maintain a healthy smile is considered an important component of prenatal care. Researchers have found that pregnancy not only increases the risk of oral health problems, but these problems may also lead to pregnancy complications. At the office of Arevalo Dental Studio, we provide the skilled and compassionate care required to help expectant mothers keep their teeth and gums in tip-top condition. While certain procedures are not recommended during pregnancy, we provide the necessary care and take all the necessary precautions required.

How can I improve the appearance of my smile?

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Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, teeth that have been affected by a range of imperfections or that have sustained damage from trauma or dental decay can be restored to produce a naturally beautiful looking and functional smile.

As skilled and experienced providers of care, our office can effectively improve and enhance the appearance of teeth that are stained, discolored, misshapen, chipped, fractured, gapped, crowded, or broken down due to dental decay. At the office of Arevalo Dental Studio, we offer a comprehensive selection of the leading-edge cosmetic solutions from teeth whitening procedures, dental bonding, tooth-colored fillings, and veneers, to prosthetic solutions and dental implants to rebuild complete and beautiful smiles.

Contact our office to learn more about the many ways we can help you create the smile you've always wanted.

How should I prepare for my dental appointment?

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If you're visiting Arevalo Dental Studio for the first time, it is helpful that you contact your former dental office and have your records sent over to us. Make note of any problems you may have so that you can discuss them with your dentist.

To provide efficient service, we ask you to please bring your insurance card, an ID, plus any referral slips or diagnostic records given to you by another office. If you are taking medications, please note or make a list of what they are as you will need to provide that information.

Does Arevalo Dental Studio treat patients of all ages?

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Yes! We assure you that both you and your family will be in good hands at the office of Arevalo Dental Studio.

What if I'm anxious about seeing the dentist?

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We do our best to make sure every patient who steps into our office for care is put at ease. We provide precise and gentle care and our skilled, compassionate team strives to make every visit stress-free. You can rest assured that your smile is in the best of hands and that we are doing all we can to ensure your comfort throughout every procedure. While we always take the time to explain every step in care, feel free to ask us any questions about local anesthesia and methods of dental sedation.

How much does dental treatment cost?

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At the office of Arevalo Dental Studio, we strive to provide the highest quality of care to address all your dental needs. Once we've had the opportunity to examine your smile, we can give you a clear picture of any dental issues that are present, along with a quote for what the cost of treatment will be. The cost of care all depends upon the extent and complexity of issues affecting the health or appearance of your smile and the types of procedures that are required. Our goal is to make dental care more affordable so that you can begin treatment without any additional stress or delay.

Keep in mind that with routine dental checkups and periodic care, we can help prevent dental disease while treating emerging problems early in their onset to avoid larger issues and more expensive care down the road.

What if I have dental insurance?

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Routine dental checkups and preventive care procedures may be covered under your dental insurance plan requiring little to no out-of-pocket expense. We invite you to check our financial information page or give us a call to find out if our office participates with your plan, and if you have any other questions about dental insurance, dental savings plans, forms of payment, or financing options. We welcome your inquiries and do our best to help you begin care without additional stress or delay.

What is the best method of replacing missing teeth?

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If you've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, gum disease, or any other reason, we recommend dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.

Is flossing as important as brushing?

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Absolutely! Both flossing and brushing regularly are equally important to maintain your oral health. While brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, flossing cleans in between them. Flossing is important to prevent plaque buildup, which can cause gums to recede and lead to periodontal disease.

Do you still need to see a dentist if you have dentures?

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Even if you have dentures, it is still necessary to see a dentist! Dental checkups help ensure that your dentures are comfortable, fitting properly, and that there are no other problems. Beyond assessing your dentures, our dentist will also perform a thorough examination of the jawbone, and surrounding soft tissues both inside the mouth, the face, and neck, to confirm that you remain in good oral health.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

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Emergency dental care is a service we hope you'll never need- but if you do, the office of Arevalo Dental Studio is here for you!

Whether you're suffering from a chipped tooth, toothache, or any problem affecting your oral health, you can be sure to get the prompt attention and compassionate care you require at our office. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities, and we offer a comprehensive range of the most advanced services to address a broad spectrum of dental needs.

While the pain of a toothache is one of the more common reasons that patients come to our office for emergency dental care, we also promptly treat emergencies that are not necessarily painful like crowns that have been dislodged and broken dentures that leave embarrassing gaps in one's smile.

You can rest assured that your oral health is in the best of hands at our office. We'll quickly determine exactly what's wrong, explain your treatment options, and then provide the precise and gentle care you require to alleviate your discomfort and get you back on the path to oral health and wellness.

Your health and comfort are our top priorities. If your dental emergency is painful, if it affects the appearance of your smile, or if you suspect that an infection is present, our office will make every effort to see you as soon as possible for care.

Why choose the office of Arevalo Dental Studio?

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At the office of Arevalo Dental Studio, we welcome patients of all ages for care and offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help every member of your family maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. Whether you or a loved one needs a routine checkup and cleaning, fillings, same-day crowns, a cosmetic smile makeover, the replacement of missing teeth or require the services of a skilled and compassionate emergency dentist, you can rely on our office for the highest quality care.

For more information on our office and the many services we provide, or to schedule an appointment for care, give us a call today.

What is an oral exam?

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An oral exam is a clinical evaluation that assesses the health of the teeth, gums, soft tissues, bite and jaw function to identify existing problems and potential risks. It combines a visual inspection with targeted screenings and, when appropriate, diagnostic imaging to give a complete picture of oral health. The purpose is to detect small issues early and to guide preventive care so patients avoid more extensive treatment later.

At Arevalo Dental Studio these exams are framed as a partnership between clinician and patient, where findings are explained in plain language and realistic next steps are discussed. Exams also reinforce homecare techniques and lifestyle choices that support long-term oral health. The overall goal is to preserve function, comfort and appearance through timely, evidence-based care.

How often should patients have an oral exam?

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For most patients, routine oral exams are scheduled every six months because that frequency allows clinicians to monitor changes, remove plaque and tartar buildup, and catch early signs of decay or gum disease. Some patients with higher risk factors—such as a history of periodontal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or heavy tobacco use—may need more frequent visits to manage their condition. The appropriate interval is individualized based on clinical findings and overall health.

Your dental team will recommend a follow-up schedule that balances prevention and convenience, and they will adjust that plan as your needs change. Regular exams create a baseline record that makes it easier to detect subtle changes over time. Keeping scheduled maintenance appointments reduces the chance that small problems will progress into complex treatments.

What happens during a comprehensive oral exam?

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A comprehensive exam begins with a review of your medical and dental history to identify conditions, medications or prior treatments that affect oral care. The clinician performs a hands-on inspection of the teeth, gums and soft tissues, evaluates bite and jaw movement, and checks for signs of tooth wear, infection or periodontal concerns. If areas of concern are identified, diagnostic images may be taken to reveal conditions that cannot be seen visually.

Oral cancer screening is included as part of the assessment, and any unusual findings are discussed along with recommended next steps. The clinician summarizes observations and offers practical guidance on homecare, preventive strategies and any additional diagnostics or referrals that may be warranted. The intent is to leave patients informed and confident about the plan moving forward.

Are oral cancer screenings part of a routine exam?

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Yes, a routine oral exam typically includes an oral cancer screening that inspects the mouth, face and neck for lesions, white or red patches, or tissue changes that may warrant further evaluation. The screening is noninvasive and is performed by visually and manually examining soft tissues for irregularities that could indicate precancerous conditions or malignancy. Early detection greatly improves the likelihood of effective treatment, which is why this screening is a standard component of comprehensive care.

If the clinician finds anything suspicious, they will explain the findings, recommend appropriate diagnostic testing or biopsy when indicated, and coordinate referrals to medical specialists as needed. The screening process is intended to be reassuring and practical, with clear information about timelines and follow-up steps. Patients should report any persistent sores, lumps or unexplained changes between visits so those concerns can be evaluated promptly.

Why are professional cleanings essential even if I brush and floss at home?

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Brushing and flossing are essential daily habits, but professional cleanings remove hardened tartar and bacterial biofilm from areas that are difficult to reach with home care alone. Hygienists use specialized instruments to clean below the gumline and between teeth, which helps prevent cavities and periodontal disease—the primary causes of tooth loss in adults. Regular professional maintenance reduces bacterial load and inflammation that contribute to oral disease.

Cleanings also provide a chance for the dental team to reassess oral health at routine intervals, reinforce personalized homecare techniques, and recommend tools or strategies that address specific problem areas. For children, these visits support healthy dental development and help detect early orthodontic needs. Maintaining a schedule of professional cleanings typically leads to fewer invasive procedures and better long-term outcomes.

What do digital x-rays and cone-beam scans reveal during an exam?

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Digital x-rays are essential for detecting conditions that are not visible on a visual exam, such as cavities between teeth, infections at the root tips, and bone loss around the teeth. They provide high-resolution images with lower radiation exposure than traditional film, and the images are available instantly for discussion during the visit. These images help clinicians make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans based on objective information.

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides three-dimensional imaging when more complex anatomy must be evaluated, such as planning for implants, assessing bone structure, or evaluating impacted teeth. CBCT is used selectively when the benefits of 3-D detail outweigh the additional exposure and is particularly valuable for surgical planning. The decision to image is based on clinical need, with patient safety and diagnostic value as the primary considerations.

How do oral exams relate to overall health and systemic conditions?

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The mouth often reflects the state of overall health, and persistent oral inflammation can be associated with systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. During an exam, clinicians look for signs—like severe gum disease, persistent dry mouth or unusual tissue changes—that may indicate or exacerbate broader medical issues. Identifying these signs early permits timely coordination with medical providers and helps reduce potential complications.

Patients with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications may require modified prevention plans to address increased risk factors. Your dental team will consider systemic health when recommending screening frequency, hygiene methods, or preventive therapies to minimize risk. This integrated approach supports both oral function and general well-being over time.

How should I prepare for my first oral exam at the practice?

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Before your first visit, gather information about your medical history, current medications, allergies and any past dental treatments so the team can tailor the exam to your needs. Bring a list of questions or concerns you want to address, and, if possible, provide recent dental records or x-rays from a previous provider to help establish a clinical baseline. Good preparation ensures the appointment is efficient and that the clinician has the context needed for accurate recommendations.

At Arevalo Dental Studio you do not need to fast or take special measures before a routine exam, but letting the office know about any recent health changes or new medications is important. Expect the clinician to review your history, perform a thorough exam and summarize findings with clear, actionable guidance. If imaging is recommended, the team will explain the type of image and why it is helpful for diagnosis.

How do oral exams differ for children compared with older adults?

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Pediatric oral exams emphasize growth, development and habit formation; clinicians monitor tooth eruption patterns, bite alignment and the early signs of cavities while teaching children and caregivers proper homecare. Preventive strategies for children often include fluoride guidance, sealants and behavior-based instruction that supports lifelong oral health. Exams are also opportunities to identify the right time for orthodontic evaluation if developmental concerns arise.

For older adults exams focus on managing cumulative wear, medication-related dry mouth, gum recession and the increased risk of root decay and periodontal disease. Clinicians may adjust preventive plans to address reduced saliva, prosthetic needs such as dentures or implants, and coordination with medical conditions. Regular monitoring and tailored hygiene recommendations help preserve function and comfort as patients age.

What follow-up actions or preventive steps might be recommended after an oral exam?

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Follow-up actions depend on the exam findings and can range from routine professional cleanings and homecare adjustments to diagnostic imaging or referral for specialty care when indicated. If early disease or risk factors are identified, the clinician will outline evidence-based interventions—such as periodontal therapy, restorative treatment or targeted prevention—that address the specific concern. Each recommendation includes a clear rationale and a suggested timeline for next steps.

Preventive measures commonly emphasized after an exam include improved brushing and flossing techniques, use of adjunctive tools like interdental brushes or prescription toothpaste, and lifestyle changes such as tobacco cessation and dietary adjustments. The dental team schedules appropriate recall visits to monitor progress and modify the plan as needed, ensuring prevention remains a continuous, manageable part of overall health care.

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