Short answer
A cleaning, a check for cavities and gum disease (often with X-rays), gum pocket measurements and an oral cancer screening.
What Happens During a Dental Exam
- Health history review: medications and conditions like diabetes or pregnancy.
- Cleaning: a hygienist removes plaque and tartar (scaling) and polishes your teeth.
- X-rays: bitewings to find cavities between teeth; a panoramic X-ray occasionally.
- Gum check: probing pocket depths. 1–3 mm is healthy; 4 mm or more may mean gum disease.
- Exam: the dentist checks for decay, cracked fillings and bite problems.
- Oral cancer screening: tongue, cheeks, throat and neck.
USA Dental Exam: Quick Facts
- Typical visit
- 45–60 minutes
- Exam only (no insurance)
- About $50–$150
- Cleaning (no insurance)
- About $75–$200
- X-rays
- About $25–$250 depending on type
- Child’s first visit
- By age 1
- Healthy gum pockets
- 1–3 mm
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.