Dental Exams & X-Rays in Greensboro, NC
Do you need a full dental exam or X-rays in Greensboro, NC, Call Dr. Layth Saraf, DMD.
At Dr. Layth Saraf, DMD we strongly recommend patients of all ages in Greensboro, NC complete an in-depth dental exam at least twice a year or once every six months.
During your dental examination, our skilled doctor will carefully examine the surfaces of each of your teeth, soft tissue, jaw, bite, and other important areas of your mouth. Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during your regular dental exam. Our Greensboro, NC dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without dental x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Comprehensive Dental Exams & X-Rays include and can Identify many issues including:
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
- Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
- Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
Why Regular Dental Checkups Matter
Routine exams help you:
- Catch cavities early, when a small filling can fix them
- Spot gum disease before it causes bone loss or tooth loss
- Find worn or failing fillings and crowns before they break
- Screen for oral cancer, which is far more treatable when found early
- Avoid emergencies by addressing issues before they become painful
Learn more about the importance of catching dental problems early.
Comprehensive Exams vs. Routine Checkups
- Comprehensive exam (new patients): Your first visit includes a thorough evaluation of your teeth, gums, bite, and dental history, usually with a complete set of X-rays. This gives us a detailed baseline for your future care, so it typically takes a little longer than a routine checkup.
- Routine checkup (returning patients): At your regular visits, we look for changes since your last exam, check on any areas we're monitoring, and take X-rays only when they're due.
New to our office? See what to expect at your first visit, and save time by filling out your patient forms before you arrive.
Dental X-Rays in Greensboro
Some of the most important dental problems are hidden from view. Dental X-rays let us see:
- Decay between teeth and under existing fillings
- Bone loss caused by gum disease
- Infections or abscesses at the root of a tooth
- Impacted or developing teeth, such as wisdom teeth
- Cysts or other abnormalities in the jaw
How often will I need X-rays? It depends on your oral health. Patients with a history of cavities or gum disease may need them more often than patients with healthy teeth. Dr. Saraf recommends X-rays only when they're needed to care for you.
Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless part of your exam. Dr. Saraf visually checks and gently feels the tissues of your mouth, face, and neck for sores, lumps, or color changes. Oral cancer is far more treatable when it's found early, and many people don't notice symptoms on their own. That makes regular screenings one of the most valuable parts of your checkup.
Exams and Cleanings Go Hand in Hand
Most checkups include a professional teeth cleaning along with your exam. The cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing can't reach, and the exam makes sure nothing is developing beneath the surface. If we find a problem, we'll explain your options, such as a filling or other restorative treatment, and help you decide on next steps.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Exam?
Most patients do well with a checkup every six months. Some people benefit from more frequent visits, including those with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, diabetes, or who smoke. Dr. Saraf will recommend a schedule based on your needs. Read more about why routine dental exams are the foundation of a healthy smile.
Insurance and Savings
Most dental insurance plans cover routine exams, and often X-rays, typically twice a year. Our team will check your benefits for you. See our accepted insurance.
- No insurance? Our in-house savings club costs $39 per month, has no waiting period, and helps you save on routine care and other treatments.
Before & Afters
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
Call Dr. Layth Saraf, DMD in Greensboro, NC today at (336) 275-6144 and ask us how our Greensboro dental exams and x-rays can brighten your smile and your day!
Dental Exams & X-Rays FAQ
What does a dental exam include?
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During a typical dental exam, the dentist or a hygienist will clean your teeth and check for any issues with your teeth, like cavities, cracks, or chips. They will also inspect your gums for any signs of gum disease. Your dental exam will include assessing your risk of acquiring other oral health problems and checking your face, neck, and mouth for any abnormalities. An oral cancer screening may also be completed in some cases. A dental exam often includes dental X-rays or other diagnostic procedures to assess the non-visible positions of your teeth and jaw.
How long does a new patient dental exam and x-rays take?
A dental exam appointment with the dentist usually takes one hour. Depending on the findings of that exam, a follow-up appointment or treatment plan may be discussed. A teeth cleaning will typically be scheduled as well if it wasn’t a part of your basic dental exam.
How often should you get dental x-rays?
If you see your dentist consistently, have excellent oral hygiene and aren’t experiencing any dental problems you might need X-rays once a year to examine for early signs of cavities. Kids may require X-rays more frequently since their teeth and mouth are changing frequently.
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