Dental examinations for new patients

We carry out two types of examination. The first type is for new patients or those who haven't attended for over 18 months. In discussion with the receptionist you decide if a 15 minute or 30 minute appointment is more appropriate. If you are aware of several problems or wish to discuss cosmetic options a 30 minute appointment should be chosen. With few or no known problems a 15 minute appointment should suffice.

The appointment consists of the following phases:

• Medical and dental history forms completed by you and reviewed by the dentist.
• You have the opportunity to say why you have come along and what your problems are.
• A visual examination is carried out to look for signs of soft tissue problems, recording the presence of teeth and their fillings. Obvious cavities or broken teeth/fillings are noted. A gum assessment is carried out and x-rays of potential problem areas carried out.
• Ttreatment recommendations are made and explained to you. The treatment options are listed in a treatment plan, and you may discuss this further with the receptionist, who may explain in more detail and provide additional information, if you need it, and make further appointments as necessary.
• The receptionist will explain the procedures planned and answer any questions. Although your appointment with the dentist is 15 minutes you are likely to be at the practice for about 45 minutes.
• With the 30 minute examination you will go through the same phases, but the treatment planning section will be longer and more discussion about the implication of taking various courses of action will be explained. You should expect to be at the practice for 60 to 75 minutes.

Recall examinations

These are for those attending every 6 to 18 months. A short exam of 5 minutes with the dentist is usually adequate for those returning every 6 to 11 months, while 10 minutes is allocated to those who come every 12 to 18 months. Longer intervals revert to the 15 minute initial exam format.

Recall exams include an update of medical history. Re-evaluation of anything we have put on watch to see if it has stabilised or worsened. Soft tissues are examined for signs of cancer. Gums are checked for signs of swelling or bleeding, and teeth are examined for signs of decay or breaks. Where a treatment plan is necessary this is discussed. The chance of problems existing increases with time interval and this is why more time is allocated to allow for treatment planning and discussion.