At Davis Family Dentistry, your oral health is our top priority. A dental exam is one of the best ways to keep your smile healthy. During your exam we check for things like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer before they turn into bigger issues.
We understand going to the dentist isn’t always fun. That’s why our team works hard to make your dental exam as comfortable as possible. We’ll walk you through everything we’re doing, answer any questions you have and give you straightforward advice about keeping your teeth and gums in great shape.
Whether you have been consistent in coming in every six months or it’s been awhile since your last dental exam, we’re here to help. Regular exams help us spot changes in your oral health, prevent bigger problems down the road and make sure your smile stays healthy for years to come.
A dental exam at Davis Family Dentistry is straightforward and comfortable. We want you to understand exactly what’s happening and why, so there are no surprises. Here’s what happens during you’re visit:
We start by going over your dental and medical history and asking about any concerns or goals you have for your oral health. This conversation helps us tailor your exam to what matters most for your specific situation.
Sometimes we need a closer look at what’s happening beneath the surface. Digital X-rays let us see things like decay between teeth or issues with your jawbone that we can’t spot just by looking. We typically recommend bitewing X-rays about once a year to keep tabs on your oral health.
We check your gums for signs of inflammation, bleeding or gum disease. Catching gum problems early makes them much easier to treat before they get serious.
Dr. Davis will examine every tooth for cavities, cracks, worn enamel and any fillings or crowns that might be failing. Finding these issues early means simpler fixes down the road.
How your teeth come together affects everything from chewing to jaw pain, and even headaches. We look at your bite and check for signs you might be grinding or clenching your teeth without realizing it.
Every dental exam includes a quick check of your lips, cheeks, tongue and throat. It only takes a minute but it’s an important way to catch potential problems early when they’re most treatable.
Before you leave, we go over what we found and answer any questions you may have. If you need additional treatment like a cleaning, filling, or scaling and root planning, we’ll walk you through your options and help you decide what makes sense for your schedule and budget.
Time for your dental exam? Schedule your visit today.
Starting care with a new dental practice should feel easy and welcoming. Here’s exactly what you can expect during your first appointment at Davis Family Dentistry.
Complete your patient forms and meet our friendly team who will make you feel right at home
Dr. Davis performs a thorough examination using advanced digital imaging technology
We discuss your oral health goals and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs
Get all your questions answered and schedule any recommended follow-up treatments
Experience personalized dental care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Schedule your appointment with us today and discover why families throughout Indianapolis trust us with their smiles.
Get answers to the most common questions about dental care, treatment options, and what to expect before your appointment.
How often should I get a dental exam?
Most people should get a dental exam every six months. However, if you have gum disease, a history of cavities or other oral health concerns we might recommend more frequent visits such as every four months. We’ll work with you to create a schedule that makes sense for your specific needs.
Does a dental exam hurt?
Not at all! A routine dental exam is painless. You might feel some slight pressure when we check your teeth and gums, but there shouldn’t be any discomfort. If we need to take X-rays or do a deeper cleaning, we’ll do our best to make sure you’re comfortable throughout the entire process.
How long does a dental exam take?
A typical exam takes about 30-45 minutes. If it’s your first visit or you need additional X-rays, the appointment might run a bit longer. We’ll do our best to let you know what to expect when you schedule your appointment.
What's the difference between a dental exam and a cleaning?
A dental exam is when Dr. Davis checks your teeth, gums, and overall oral health for any problems. A cleaning is when one of our hygienist removes plaque and tartar build up from your teeth. Most patients get both done during the same appointment.
Is a dental exam covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover two routine exams per year at 100% with no out-of-pocket costs. We’ll verify your benefits before your appointment and let you know exactly what’s covered. If you don’t have insurance, we offer affordable self-pay rates and even better deals with our in-house memberships plans.
What happens if the dentist finds a problem during my exam?
I we find a cavity, gum disease or another issue, we’ll explain what we found and discuss the treatment options with you. There’s never any pressure to decide right away. We’ll give you all the information you need to make the best choice for your health and budget.
Can I get a dental exam if it's been years since my last visit?
Absolutely! We see patients who haven’t been to the dentist in years all the time. There’s no judgment here, we’re just glad you’re taking the steps to get back on track! We’ll take things at your pace and help you get your oral health back in tip-top shape.
Discover Why We’re Indianapolis’ Trusted Dentist
