Dental Exam in West Hills
A small problem in your mouth rarely announces itself. A tooth that feels fine can be developing a cavity, gums that look normal can be pulling away from teeth, and a jaw that clicks now and then can be the start of a larger issue. A dental exam is how we catch these things while they are still small and simpler to address. At 805 Dentistry, we see patients from West Hills who want one dental home for the whole family, where a routine checkup can connect directly to whatever care comes next.
A dental exam is a careful look at the health of your teeth, gums, jaw, and the soft tissues of your mouth. Dr. Dar Radfar and our team check each tooth for signs of decay, review existing fillings and crowns, and assess your gums for signs of gum disease. We also include an oral cancer screening, checking the tissues of your mouth for anything unusual.
When we need a closer look, we use 2D and 3D dental imaging, including CBCT imaging when it's appropriate. These images help us find problems that can't be seen by eye alone, such as decay between teeth or concerns below the gumline. Because our office brings many specialties together, including a board-certified oral and maxillofacial radiologist, we can interpret findings in-house rather than sending you elsewhere.
Many West Hills patients come to us simply because it's time for their regular checkup, often paired with a dental cleaning. Keeping up with routine visits is one of the most practical ways to protect your teeth and plan care on your own schedule.
Others come because something feels off. A patient might notice jaw clicking, morning headaches, or facial soreness, which can point to a TMJ concern. Our practice has a strong focus on TMJ and sleep apnea treatment, so an exam is often the first step in sorting out those symptoms. Parents bring children for early checkups, and adults sometimes come in after years away from the dentist, ready for a fresh start. Some patients are planning cosmetic work or tooth replacement and need a thorough evaluation before deciding on a path.
Who should schedule a dental exam?
Nearly everyone benefits from a dental exam, from young children to older adults. We see patients of all ages, so families in West Hills can schedule parents and kids with the same office, and parents are welcome in the treatment room during their child's visit.
An exam is especially helpful if you notice any of the following:
- Tooth sensitivity, pain, or a cracked or chipped tooth
- Bleeding, tender, or receding gums
- Jaw clicking, locking, or limited movement
- Snoring or signs of disrupted sleep
- A sore or spot in your mouth that hasn't healed
- Missing teeth you would like to replace
If you feel nervous about dental visits, let us know. We have a board-certified dental anesthesiologist on staff and offer options such as nitrous oxide for patients with dental anxiety, so we can talk through what will help you feel more at ease.
What happens after my exam?
After your exam, we explain what we found in plain language and answer your questions. If everything looks healthy, we'll recommend when to return and share tips for keeping your teeth and gums in good shape at home, such as consistent brushing and flossing.
If we find something that needs attention, we'll walk you through your options. Because we offer a wide range of care in one place, including fillings, crowns, gum disease treatment, root canal therapy, orthodontics, and TMJ therapy, your next steps can often stay within our office. Several of our specialty areas accept patients without a referral, which keeps things simple. If something urgent comes up later, we also offer emergency dental appointments.
How can I pay for my dental exam?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, and many plans include coverage for routine exams. Our team can help you understand how your benefits apply before your visit so there are fewer surprises.
If you don't have dental insurance, we welcome self-pay patients. Financing is also available for patients who need additional treatment after their exam, so cost doesn't have to delay important care. For West Hills patients looking for a practice that handles routine checkups, family dentistry, and specialty care under one roof, scheduling an exam with 805 Dentistry is a straightforward place to start.