See What Is Happening Before It Hurts
In Des Plaines, a dental exam is the simplest way to find small problems before they turn painful. This page explains what we check, who needs an exam, and how to get ready.
Most patients book their exam with a cleaning, and new patients are welcome. As your dentist on Graceland Avenue, we give you clear answers and a plan you can follow.
What Happens During a Dental Exam in Des Plaines?
A dental exam in Des Plaines is a visit where we check your teeth, gums, and mouth for problems. Here is what we do, step by step:
- We review your health history and any concerns you have.
- We check each tooth for decay, cracks, and worn fillings.
- We measure your gums for early signs of gum disease.
- We screen your lips, tongue, and throat for signs of oral cancer.
- We take digital x-rays if it has been a while since your last set.
- We check your bite and jaw joints.
- We share what we found and your next steps before you leave.
Signs You Are Due for a Dental Exam
The most common reason to book is time. If it has been more than six months, you are due. Small cavities often cause no pain at first.
Some signs mean you should come in sooner:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- A tooth that hurts with cold drinks
- A chip, crack, or rough edge
- Bad breath that does not go away
Chicago-area winters can make sensitive teeth feel worse. If cold air makes a tooth ache, tell us at your visit.
Choosing the Right Dental Exam Schedule for Your Family
Most adults and kids do well with a checkup every six months. If you have had gum disease, we may want to see you more often.
Kids’ needs change as new teeth come in. We set a dental exam schedule that fits each person’s teeth and health.
Getting Ready for Your Visit to Our Graceland Avenue Office
A little prep makes your first visit smooth. Bring these items with you:
- A photo ID and your dental insurance card
- A list of the medicines you take
- Any recent x-rays from your last dentist
New patients can save time by filling out forms before the visit. You can find them on our patient resources page. Our office is in downtown Des Plaines at 685 Graceland Ave.
How We Use Digital X-Rays and Cameras During Your Exam
We take dental x-rays in Des Plaines with Sopro digital sensors. The image shows up on our screen in seconds. We can zoom in and show you exactly what we see.
An intraoral camera lets you see your own teeth up close. This makes it easier to understand why we suggest a treatment. The American Dental Association explains how dental x-rays help dentists find hidden problems.
Keeping Your Dental Exam Results on Track
Before you leave, we explain your results in plain words. If everything looks healthy, we book your next visit in six months.
If we find a problem, we explain your options and let you decide. Pair your next exam with a teeth cleaning in Des Plaines to keep everything in one visit. You can also read about our dental checkups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most adults and kids need a dental exam every six months. If you have gum disease or frequent cavities, we may suggest visits more often.
No, they are two parts of the same visit. The cleaning removes plaque and tartar, and the exam checks your teeth, gums, and mouth for problems.
Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and a list of your medicines. Recent x-rays from your last dentist help too.
An exam is gentle for most people. You may feel light pressure when we check your gums, and you can ask us to pause at any time.
Yes, we welcome new patients at our Graceland Avenue office. Call (847) 824-7467 to book your first dental exam.