The Most Important 60 Minutes in Dentistry
Nearly every serious dental problem — decay, gum disease, infection, even oral cancer — is silent in its early stages. By the time something hurts, the easy window has usually closed. A thorough exam is how we keep you in that easy window, where treatment is simpler, cheaper and more comfortable.
What We Actually Check
Your teeth. Every surface of every tooth is charted — existing fillings, wear patterns, cracks, and any early decay. Deep grooves and shadowed areas get special attention.
Your gums and bone. We measure the small pockets around your teeth to detect gum disease long before it loosens anything. Bleeding points and recession are tracked visit over visit.
Your bite and jaw joints. Grinding, clenching and TMJ strain leave fingerprints on your teeth. Caught early, a simple night guard can prevent years of damage.
Your soft tissues. Every exam includes an oral cancer screening of your tongue, cheeks, palate and throat. It takes two minutes and it saves lives.
Your x-rays — when warranted. Low-dose digital x-rays reveal what eyes can't: decay between teeth, infection at root tips, bone levels and impacted wisdom teeth.
Then We Talk — Like Adults
The exam ends with a conversation, not a sales pitch. You'll see what we see (we'll show you the images), understand your options including the option to wait and watch, and get clear costs before anything is scheduled. If you'd like a second opinion on treatment recommended elsewhere, we're happy to provide an honest one.
New to Dentistry @ Manotick?
Your first exam is the start of the relationship. Complete your new patient forms online before you arrive, bring any recent x-rays, and receive a free electric toothbrush when you complete your new patient exam, x-rays and cleaning. We work with all insurance plans, bill directly, and welcome CDCP patients.
Book your exam online or call (613) 491-3300 — evening and select Saturday appointments available.
Dental Exams — Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in a new patient exam?
A complete review of your medical and dental history, a tooth-by-tooth charting, gum measurements, bite and jaw-joint assessment, oral cancer screening, and digital x-rays where indicated — followed by an unhurried conversation about what we found and what (if anything) to do about it. New patients who complete an exam, x-rays and cleaning receive a free electric toothbrush.
Do I need x-rays at every exam?
No. A healthy adult with no recent cavities usually doesn't need x-rays at every visit. We follow a conservative schedule based on your individual risk, and our digital x-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film.
How long does a dental exam take?
A new patient exam typically takes about an hour, giving us time to be thorough and answer every question. Routine recall exams paired with a cleaning are shorter.
What should I bring to my first exam?
Bring any x-rays from the past six months if you have them, a list of medications you take, your insurance information, and a referral slip if applicable. A parent or guardian must accompany patients under 18 at the first visit. You can complete our new patient forms online before you arrive.