Comprehensive Dental Exam and First Appointment
A regular dental exam is the foundation of good oral health. At Centre Dentaire Pierrefonds, we strive to provide you with attentive and professional service so that you feel comfortable and reassured during your visit to our clinic. Whether you are coming for a routine dental exam or to address a specific concern, our qualified team of dentists, dental assistants, and hygienists is here to put you at ease.
New client at Centre Dentaire Pierrefonds?
At your first appointment as a new patient at our West Island dental clinic, expect to spend nearly two hours with us. From a comprehensive intraoral and extraoral examination to a dental diagnosis and personalized care plan, discover how we make your oral health our priority.
Review of Medical and Dental History
Before starting your exam, our dental hygienist will:
- Review your medical and dental history, including any conditions that may be related to your oral health. Certain diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis, can impact your teeth and gums.
- Note any medications that may contribute to issues such as dry mouth or an increased risk of cavities.
- Discuss your past experiences, expectations, concerns, and priorities regarding your oral health.
X-Rays and Photos
Our hygienist will take various dental X-rays to detect problems not visible to the naked eye, such as:
- Cavities between teeth
- Bone loss related to gum disease
- Hidden infections or cysts
- Internal conditions such as nerve damage, cracks, and dental abscesses
- Impacted teeth or developing wisdom teeth
If you have recent X-rays from another clinic, we can review them to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure. Photographs of your smile and teeth will also be taken for visual reference.
In-Depth Dental Examinations
Periodontal Exam
Our hygienist will perform a periodontal exam, including measuring and recording the level of your gums and bone to ensure they are healthy or to diagnose problems such as gingivitis or periodontitis, which are types of gum disease.
Our hygienist will also record any restorations in your mouth, such as:
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Implants
Intraoral Oral Exam
Once our hygienist has completed her work, our dentist will conduct a detailed exam of your oral health, which includes:
- Examining the inside of your mouth, including teeth, cheeks, and tongue
- Evaluating the health of your gums and bones
- Checking for signs of xerostomia (dry mouth)
- Screening for halitosis (bad breath)
- Screening for oral cancer
Extraoral Exam
In addition to your teeth, our dentist will examine your head, neck, jaw, and how your teeth fit together (occlusion) to look for problems such as:
- Malocclusion – crossbite, underbite, and overbite – which can affect chewing and jaw alignment.
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, identifiable by symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
- Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, which causes excessive tooth wear and jaw tension.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Once your dental exam is complete, your dentist will discuss with you:
- The results of the exam
- Treatment recommendations, if necessary
- Preventive measures to maintain optimal oral health
Need an Appointment for a Comprehensive Dental Exam?
At Centre Dentaire Pierrefonds, the health of our patients is our top priority. Trust us to provide attentive and professional service at all times.
Do you have any questions about our initial dental exams before making an appointment?
And what about cleaning your teeth?
Once we have completed the comprehensive exam of your oral condition, our dental hygienist will invite you to schedule an appointment for a professional dental cleaning. The duration of this treatment will be determined based on the results of your comprehensive exam.
Annual Dental Exam for Existing Clients
If you are already a patient at our clinic, we invite you to schedule a regular exam with your dentist twice a year. The frequency of your visits will be determined by your oral condition. In cases of gum disease or high-risk dental conditions, the recommended frequency may be increased.
Why Have Regular Dental Exams?
Regular exams allow us to check for minor or major changes since your last exam. Several tests may be prescribed to evaluate the current state of your oral health.
Regular exams help to:
Maintain fresh breath and a healthy smile
Screen for oral cancer and other health issues
Prevent cavities and gum disease
Detect problems early to avoid costly treatments
Make sure to schedule a dental exam every year.
We Welcome New Patients!
Call us at (514)-624-1935 to schedule an appointment.
Questions and Answers About Dental Exams
We recommend a dental exam and cleaning every six months to ensure good oral health. However, the frequency may vary based on your specific needs and dental health status.
No, a dental exam is generally painless. Our dentists use gentle techniques to ensure your comfort. If you experience dental anxiety, please let us know so we can adjust your care accordingly.
To facilitate your care, please bring:
- Your dental insurance card (if applicable)
- A list of medications you are currently taking
- Your recent dental X-rays (if available)
The cost of a comprehensive dental exam ranges from $125 to $175, excluding cleaning. The fee may depend on the complexity of the exam and the necessary X-rays.
Yes, we accept most dental insurance plans. Please contact us before your appointment to verify if your insurance is accepted.
No, dental cleaning is not included in the exam. A professional cleaning will be recommended following your visit.
We recommend a dental exam and cleaning every six months to ensure good oral health. However, the frequency may vary based on your specific needs and dental health status.
A dental recall exam is a regular visit to monitor your oral health and prevent potential problems. It typically includes a check-up of your teeth and gums, X-rays if necessary, and a professional cleaning. The frequency of these exams is determined by your individual dental needs but is generally every 6 months.