What Do Dentists Look for During a Routine Exam? Glenmore Park Dental Explains

Summary

Think dental exams are just about checking for cavities? There’s much more going on during your visit. At Glenmore Park Dental, we provide comprehensive exams for patients across Lakeview, Glenbrook, Marda Loop, Glamorgan, and Acadia, helping you stay ahead of hidden problems and protect your long-term health. From gum health and bite alignment to oral cancer screening and past dental work, we check it all. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what your dentist looks for during a checkup, and why regular exams are one of the most important ways to keep your smile strong. Contact Glenmore Park Dental today to book your next exam in SW Calgary. 

There's More to a Checkup Than You Might Think


When most people think of a dental exam, they picture the dentist checking for cavities — and maybe recommending a cleaning. While that’s part of it, a proper dental exam covers much more than just tooth decay.

At Glenmore Park Dental, our exams are designed to look at the full picture of your oral health. That means we’re not only checking your teeth, but also your gums, jaw, bite, tongue, and soft tissues. We look for signs of problems before they hurt, and we keep detailed records so we can spot changes early.

If it’s been a while since your last checkup, here’s what we’re actually checking when you sit in the chair. 

A Full-Body Look at Your Oral Health


1. Tooth Surfaces and Enamel Health

During a checkup at Glenmore Park Dental, we check for cavities, cracks, or areas of erosion. These may not hurt yet, but catching them early means smaller fillings — or no fillings at all.

2. Gum Health and Periodontal Pockets

Healthy gums are critical for tooth stability. We look for:

  • Redness or swelling
  • Bleeding while probing
  • Deep pockets between the teeth and gums

These are early signs of gum disease (which can lead to tooth loss if untreated).

3. Past Dental Work

During an exam we examine all your existing:

  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Implants

Why? Because even the best dental work can shift, crack, or wear down over time. We make sure nothing is failing silently.

4. Oral Cancer Screening

We do a quick but thorough check of your tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat for early signs of oral cancer — especially important if you smoke, vape, or drink alcohol frequently.

5. Bite, Jaw & TMJ Function

Does your bite line up properly? Are you grinding or clenching? 
We assess for:

  • Jaw clicking or locking
  • Uneven wear
  • Headaches or facial tension from bite issues

These can lead to bigger problems if left unchecked.

6. Breathing & Airway Observations

Chronic mouth breathing, enlarged tonsils, or signs of poor oxygen flow can be indicators of sleep apnea or airway concerns — often first noticed during a dental exam.

7. X-rays (When Needed)

Not every visit requires x-rays, but when we do take them, they help us detect:

  • Decay under existing restorations
  • Bone loss
  • Hidden infection
  • Impacted teeth or developmental concerns

We use digital x-rays that are low-radiation and high-clarity for safe, accurate diagnostics. 

Let’s Make Your Next Exam More Than Just a Quick Look


At Glenmore Park Dental, we don’t rush through dental check ups. Whether you live in Lakeview, Marda Loop, Acadia, Glenbrook, or Glamorgan, our goal is to give you a thorough, personalized checkup that helps prevent problems before they start.

Your mouth is a window into your overall health, and regular exams give us the chance to keep that window clear. We’ll walk you through what we find, answer your questions, and create a plan that makes sense for you.

Contact Glenmore Park Dental today to book your next routine exam and experience dentistry that looks at the full picture. 

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Next Checkup

We check your teeth, gums, bite, jaw, soft tissues, and any past dental work — it’s a full-mouth health check. 

Usually 30–45 minutes, depending on your needs and whether x-rays or a cleaning are included. 

No. Exams are non-invasive, and we’re gentle and careful to make you comfortable. Contact Glenmore Park Dental to book an exam today.  

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