Exams and X-Rays

Ensure your dental health is on track

Detect problems early and avoid larger issues

Gain a great understanding of your oral health

40 Under 40

40 Under 40

Academy of General Dentistry

Academy of General Dentistry

American Dental Association

American Dental Association

Coastal Virginia Magazine

Coastal Virginia Magazine

Fellow: Academy of General Dentistry

Fellow: Academy of General Dentistry

Gold+ Invisalign Provider

Gold+ Invisalign Provider

International Congress of Oral Implantologists

International Congress of Oral Implantologists

Invisalign Provider

Invisalign Provider

IPS E-Max

IPS E-Max

iTero

iTero

Northern Virginia Dental Society

Northern Virginia Dental Society

Opalescence

Opalescence

Planmeca

Planmeca

PreXion

PreXion

Proceed Finance

Proceed Finance

Seattle Study Club

Seattle Study Club

University of Maryland School of Dentistry

University of Maryland School of Dentistry

Virginia Academy of General Dentistry

Virginia Academy of General Dentistry

Virginia Dental Association

Virginia Dental Association

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For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (703) 444-5108 or click the button below to contact us online.

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Routine Dental Exams and X-Rays in Sterling, VA

Exams for Patients in Potomac, Ashburn

Few things are as important for good oral health as getting your dental exams and X-rays regularly. These services are crucial when it comes to detecting problems before they become serious, keeping you healthy. During an exam and X-ray appointment, your dentist can find cavities, assess your risk for gum disease and tooth decay, and look for warning signs of more serious issues, like oral cancer. The professionals at WestLake Dental Care encourage our patients to have a dental exam at least once every six months. 

Procedure Details:

The Purpose of Dental Exams and X-Rays

A dental exam allows the dentist to determine whether or not your teeth and gums are healthy. The exam gives them the opportunity to see problems with the teeth and gums in earlier stages, before they become larger issues. X-rays provide dentists with the ability to examine hard-to-see areas in the back of the mouth and inside the teeth so that they can detect tooth decay and other problems. Dental exams and X-rays are important tools for your preventative dental care.

The Importance of Dental Exams and X-Rays

Wondering why you should always keep up with your dental exams? Quite simply, getting your regular dental exams and X-rays will ensure that you’re on top of your oral health. If there is any decay or warning signs of bigger issues present such as oral cancer, your dentist will be able to catch them early and stop them from turning into larger problems. During your exam, your dentist will also identify any preventative treatment that is needed and use X-rays to uncover hidden issues inside your teeth or gums. These regular checkups are crucial to maintaining your oral health.

Are X-Rays Dangerous?

There is a common misconception that dental X-rays expose patients to a dangerous amount of radiation, but this is untrue. Dental X-rays use only a small amount of radiation in order to produce images that can help detect problems. People are often exposed to higher amounts of radiation from sources like the sun, microwaves, cell phones, and more. X-rays have been proven to be safe and an effective way of diagnosing dental problems, and you should not avoid getting them when recommended by your dentist.

Contact WestLake Dental Care For Your Exam Today

If you’re in need of a dental exam or X-rays, contact our office today. We’d be happy to work with you to schedule an appointment and ensure that your oral health is in great condition. Our years of experience and dedication to our patients set us apart in the world of dentistry, and we’d love to serve you in the Sterling, VA area.

For more information about exams and x-rays or to book an appointment, call us at (703) 444-5108 or visit our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Exams & X-Rays

  • What is involved in a dental exam?

    A dental exam typically involves a thorough check of your teeth, gums, and mouth by a dentist. The dentist looks for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They may also examine your bite, look for any changes in your mouth, and discuss your overall oral hygiene and health habits.

  • How often should I get a dental exam?

    The frequency of dental exams varies depending on your oral health status and risk factors. Generally, it's recommended to have a dental exam every six months. However, your dentist might suggest a different schedule based on your specific needs.

  • Why are dental X-rays necessary?

    Dental X-rays are important diagnostic tools that help dentists detect issues that are not visible during a regular dental exam. They can reveal decay between teeth, problems below the gum line, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts, tumors, and bone loss. X-rays are crucial for a comprehensive assessment of your oral health.

  • Can children have dental X-rays, and are they safe for them?

    Yes, children can have dental X-rays, and they are safe when used appropriately. Dental X-rays for children are important for diagnosing and treating oral diseases that cannot be detected with a visual examination alone, especially as their jaws and teeth are still developing. The amount of radiation used in dental X-rays is very low, and dentists take special care with children by using protective lead aprons and limiting the number of X-rays.

  • What should I expect during my first dental exam and X-ray?

    During your first dental exam, the dentist will review your medical and dental history, perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth, and assess your overall oral health. For X-rays, you will be asked to bite down on a small piece of plastic, and the dentist will take images of your teeth from various angles. The process is quick and painless. The dentist will then discuss the results of the exam and X-rays with you, addressing any concerns and planning any necessary treatments.

I've had excellent care for years. Dr. T is great at explaining everything, making it less stressful, and making sure you feel comfortable. Everyone is friendly and service is prompt. I would recommend Westlake Dental Care to anyone.

- Margie W.

Potomac Falls, VA

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