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Dental Exam: Do I Need It?

March 19, 2025

How often should you see your family dentist in North Charleston? There are two reasons why the American Dental Association urges you to make time to see your dentist – a dental exam and professional teeth cleaning. While the latter is self-explanatory, the former stirs a lot of confusion. Many people are wondering why a dental exam is necessary. Annual dental exams are part of preventive dentistry to help improve your oral health.

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Why Do I Need a Dental Exam?

What Is a Dental Exam?

During a dental exam, your dentist or dental hygienist will inspect your teeth and gums. Generally, children and adults are recommended to get a dental exam twice a year. These exams are necessary to help protect your oral health. Without a dental exam, you’ll be prone to painful and serious oral health problems. In addition, having a family dentist around offers convenience since all family members can go to one clinic instead of driving the kids to a pediatric dentist while the adults go to a general dentist.

Why Do You Need It?

Regardless of whether you’re exhibiting symptoms, you still need to see a family dentist. However, if you have bleeding or swollen gums, your dentist may recommend that you visit more often. Regular monitoring is essential since gum disease can lead to tooth loss and infection. In addition, the results of your dental exam will inform you if you have cavities, tooth decay, gingivitis, bone loss, or oral cancer. The earlier these problems are detected, the better they are managed.

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Are You Looking for a Family Dentist in North Charleston?

If you haven’t taken your family to a family dentist Charleston SC, it may not be too late. We at North Rivers Dental Associates welcome you and your family to our clinic. We take pride in our years of service in the dental industry. You can call or book an appointment with us today.

Contact Us To Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Hear It From Them

The best way to understand our commitment to quality care is to hear from those who know us best—our patients! We’re proud of the work we do and invite you to see what they have to say:

This was my first visit, and I am truly impressed!  The facility is very inviting in every way, the staff is outstanding, kind, & professional, and I am happy to say that I have found my dental home place! 😊  Thank You!

Deborah A..

It brings happy tears to my eyes knowing that my smile is fixed. Dr. Jake worked for 2 1/2 hours repairing old, cracked fillings, sealed between my teeth. This weighed on my confidence for three years and I barely ever wanted to talk. My teeth are restored back to their original state and it’s unbelievable what a patient, and kind dentist can do for one’s confidence. I owe ya one, Dr Jake!"

Alejandra M.

Scheduled my elderly mother a new patient visit and every single staff member we were in contact with was EXTREMELY helpful and so sweet! I’m thinking of switching myself! We couldn’t be happier with this office!

Alison F.

I have been going to Dr Emerson at North Rivers Dental for years now and every time I go I never had a bad experience. Thank you all!

Cynthia D.
10/18/2019

I have been going to North Rivers for 10+ years, I have always received excellent care, the staff is helpful and very friendly.

Glenn J.
10/28/2019

Dr Cates is exceptionally talented in the dental profession. Everyone at North Rivers Dental are so helpful and friendly.

James T.
09/09/2019

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