Comprehensive Dental Examination near Las Vegas, NV

Undergoing biannual dental exams are very important to maintaining and improving your overall oral health. These exams are performed to identify any problems or concerns with your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw. Early detection is also key in preventing minor concerns from becoming greater issues that may require more intensive treatment. Comprehensive dental exams at Michaela Tozzi, DMD can assess your dental health by checking for tooth decay, gum disease, and signs of oral cancer. Digital x-rays are also performed during this time to gain a better insight into the health of your oral structures. A thorough dental exam will help seasoned dentist Dr. Michaela Tozzi determine if any treatment is needed to address oral concerns, such as cavities, gingivitis, or periodontists. If you live in Henderson or near Las Vegas, NV, we invite you to reach out to our practice to schedule a comprehensive dental exam for you and your family.

Oral cancer is an umbrella term that is used to describe any type of cancer that develops inside or near the mouth. Oral cancer can affect the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, jawbone, the floor of the mouth, soft palate, salivary glands, and throat. Every dental exam at Michaela Tozzi, DMD includes a screening for oral cancer to look for any signs of concern, such as inflammation, sores, lumps, and lesions. Dr. Tozzi will also feel the neck and jaw for abnormal growths. If any abnormalities are found, a biopsy may be performed or we may refer you to a specialist for further testing.

There are many benefits to receiving dental exams, including:

• Preventive care to preserve the health of your smile
• The ability to catch dental issues before they develop further
• Less invasive treatments available for dental concerns caught early
• Evaluation of the mouth to detect oral cancer

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends dental exams every six months to one year, even if your mouth is in ideal health. Biannual visits can identify dental concerns and assess if you are on track for long-term oral health. We encourage patients of all ages to visit the dentist, and the ADA even recommends that children receive a dental exam before their first birthday. When oral issues are caught early, you tend to have more minimally invasive treatment options available to address your concerns, which can save you money in the long run. By postponing treatment, it can allow bacteria to spread and concerns, like cavities, to become more severe, which can lead to invasive treatment options that are typically more expensive. We understand that visiting the dentist can seem scary, but our caring team is dedicated to providing a comfortable and relaxing experience.

Your dental exam will begin with a brief examination of your teeth, tongue, gums, throat, inside your cheeks, roof of your mouth, and other checkpoints. This includes checking for signs of oral cancer in your mouth. Dr. Tozzi or a member of our team will then take x-rays to attain a detailed view of your internal structures and perform a thorough exam of your gums. Dr. Tozzi will also evaluate your neck, head, and jaw, including your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and bite. Once your assessment is complete, she will discuss her findings with you and go over all of your treatment options. Dr. Tozzi will take her time to discuss any health concerns you may have, review prescriptions you are taking, and provide tips on different care regimens you can incorporate at home to improve your oral health. Lastly, she will check any restorations you have to assess their fit and wear.

If Dr. Tozzi doesn't find any oral concerns, such as cavities, gingivitis, or periodontitis, then she will generally recommend that you continue practicing routine oral care at home and schedule biannual dental cleanings. If Dr. Tozzi does discover any concerns that require treatment, follow-up exams will be scheduled accordingly. Your treatment plan will depend on the location, severity, and symptoms of your oral health concerns. 

Since a dental exam is critical to your oral health, it's typically covered by dental insurance. Our office will contact your insurance company to confirm your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses. If you do not have dental insurance, Michaela Tozzi, DMD accepts many payments, including medical financing.

How often should I receive a dental exam?
For most individuals, dental exams are recommended every six months. They are often performed at the same visit as a dental cleaning. However, if you are experiencing a dental issue, you should contact our facility to schedule a dental exam to determine the cause.

What happens if an issue is detected during my dental exam?
If an issue is detected during your dental exam, Dr. Tozzi will create a treatment plan to help treat the issue. In most cases, a separate dental appointment will be made to administer treatment. Dental exams are important in order to diagnose these issues early on and prevent more invasive treatment.

Does a dental exam always include x-rays?
Not every dental exam may include taking x-rays. For most individuals with no dental concerns, x-rays will be taken every couple of months or years. However, if you are having pain, discomfort, or a separate concern, new x-rays may be needed to diagnose the issue.

Is there anyone who should have more frequent dental exams?
Yes, Dr. Tozzi recommends more frequent dental exams for individuals with a high risk of dental problems. This includes patients with a history of gum disease, those who smoke or chew tobacco, diabetics, people currently undergoing certain medical treatments like radiation, chemotherapy, or those taking medications that impact oral health. Pregnant women and those with a weak immune response may also require more frequent check-ups.

Are dental x-rays safe?
Dental x-rays are extremely safe. Our office uses modern digital x-ray technology, which significantly reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional film x-rays. The level of radiation is extremely low and is considered safe for both adults and children.

What should I expect if I haven’t had a dental exam in a long time?
If it's been a while since your last dental exam, Dr. Tozzi will conduct a comprehensive examination. This includes a thorough cleaning, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. She might take x-rays to get a better view of your teeth and jawbone. Dr. Tozzi will also discuss your oral hygiene habits and provide guidance for improvement if necessary. The goal is to assess your current oral health status and create a plan to address any issues.

Maintaining good oral health means that you don't just go to the dentist when something goes wrong. Preventive care is vital. It may save your teeth and gums, as well as a significant amount of money and time. We recommend visiting Dr. Tozzi at Michaela Tozzi, DMD once a year for a dental examination. Doing so can enable you to minimize problems by catching and treating them in the early stages. We do our best to make dental exams a positive experience for you so it's easier to keep yourself healthy. Contact our office in Henderson, NV to make your appointment.