Preventive Dental Care for a Healthy Smile
Routine dental exams and X-rays play an important role in protecting your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. At Amy K. Lee, DDS, we provide comprehensive dental evaluations using advanced imaging technology to help detect problems early and support long-term dental wellness.
Our team proudly cares for patients of all ages throughout Alameda and Berkeley in a comfortable, family-friendly environment.
Understanding Dental Exams & X-Rays
Dental exams and X-rays help dentists evaluate your oral health and identify issues that may not be visible during daily brushing or flossing.
Diagnostic X-rays provide detailed images of the teeth and supporting structures, helping us detect concerns below the gumline and create more accurate treatment plans.
The Academy of General Dentistry recommends regular dental checkups to help maintain healthy teeth and gums and reduce the risk of more serious dental problems.
Routine checkups allow our team to monitor:
Oral Health Exams - How is it done?
During your dental exam, the dentist will conduct a thorough visual inspection of your mouth, using tools like mouth mirrors, dental instruments, and high-intensity lights. This examination is designed to detect a range of potential issues, including:
- Medical History Review: The dentist will consider how any new medical conditions or treatments may impact your oral health.
- Tooth Decay Check: Your teeth will be examined for any signs of cracks or decay.
- Oral Cancer Screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums will be checked for signs of oral cancer.
- Gum Disease Evaluation: The health of your gums and the bone surrounding your teeth will be assessed for signs of periodontal disease.
- Examination of Restorations: Existing fillings, crowns, and other dental work will be checked to ensure they are still in good condition.
To gain a comprehensive view of your oral health, diagnostic x-rays are taken to uncover any hidden issues, particularly those below the gum line. Typically, bitewing x-rays are performed annually, while a panoramic x-ray, which provides a complete view of your entire mouth, is taken every 3-5 years.
Regular exams and x-rays are essential for detecting issues early, allowing for timely treatment and helping you maintain optimal dental health.
Digital Dental X-Rays
Digital X-rays help identify problems that may not be visible during a visual exam.
- Bitewing X-rays
- Panoramic X-rays
- Diagnostic imaging for treatment planning
These images help detect:
- Cavities
- Bone loss
- Infection
- Impacted teeth
- Hidden dental concerns
CBCT 3D Imaging
Our office also uses Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) technology for advanced 3D imaging.
- Teeth
- Jawbone
- Nerves
- Surrounding structures
This technology is especially helpful for:
- Dental implant planning
- Complex diagnosis
- Advanced treatment planning
Schedule Your Dental Exam Today
Protect your smile with routine dental exams and advanced diagnostic imaging at Amy K. Lee, DDS. Our caring team is here to help patients throughout Alameda and Berkeley maintain healthy smiles for years to come.
FAQ About Dental Exams & X-Rays
How often should I schedule a dental exam?
Most patients benefit from dental exams and cleanings every six months, although recommendations may vary based on individual oral health needs.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Modern digital X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are considered safe for routine dental care.
What is CBCT imaging?
CBCT is a type of 3D dental imaging that provides detailed views of the teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures for advanced diagnosis and treatment planning.
Do I need X-rays at every visit?
Not always. The type and frequency of X-rays depend on your oral health history, symptoms, and treatment needs.
Can dental exams detect oral cancer?
Yes. Routine dental exams often include an oral cancer screening to check for unusual changes in the mouth and surrounding tissues.
Amy K. Lee, DDS
General + Family Dentistry
Amy K. Lee, DDS © 2026. All rights reserved.