When Was Your Last Dental Exam? What Families in Tigard Need to Know

If you're like most busy families in Tigard, OR, scheduling regular dental exams might not always make it to the top of your to-do list. Between work commitments, school activities, and daily responsibilities, it's easy to let months—or even years—slip by between dental visits. But here's what Dr. Kerri Smith wants you to know: a comprehensive dental exam is one of the most important investments you can make in your family's overall health and well-being.

At Tualatin Valley Dental, we understand that your time is valuable and your trust is earned. That's why we've built our practice around providing thorough, personalized care that gives you real answers about your oral health. Whether you're bringing in your child for their first exam or you're an adult who hasn't seen a dentist in years, our team is here to make your experience comfortable, informative, and genuinely beneficial.

A comprehensive dental exam at our Tigard office goes far beyond just checking for cavities—it's a complete assessment of your oral health that can reveal important insights about your overall wellness. Let's explore what makes these exams so essential and what you can expect when you visit Tualatin Valley Dental.

What Happens During a Comprehensive Dental Exam?

When you visit Tualatin Valley Dental for a dental exam, Dr. Kerri Smith and our experienced team conduct a systematic evaluation of every aspect of your oral health. This isn't a rushed appointment—it's a thorough examination designed to catch potential problems early, when they're most treatable and least expensive to address.

During your exam, Dr. Smith carefully examines your teeth for signs of decay, cracks, or structural damage. She assesses your gums for any indication of periodontal disease, which affects nearly half of American adults and is closely linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. The exam also includes a careful inspection of your tongue, throat, and soft tissues to screen for oral cancer and other abnormalities that many patients don't even know to look for.

At Tualatin Valley Dental, we also evaluate your bite alignment, jaw function, and any signs of teeth grinding or TMJ disorders. Many patients in Tigard come to us with headaches or jaw pain without realizing these symptoms often stem from dental issues. Our comprehensive approach means we look at the complete picture of your oral health, not just isolated symptoms.

Why Regular Dental Exams Matter for Your Family's Health

One of the most valuable aspects of regular dental exams is early detection. Dr. Kerri Smith often tells patients that the problems we find early are the ones that cause the least disruption to your life and budget. A small cavity detected during a routine exam requires a simple filling, but that same cavity left untreated for two years might eventually require a root canal or even extraction.

For families in Tigard, OR, establishing a pattern of regular dental exams sets children up for a lifetime of good oral health habits. When kids see that dental visits are normal, routine, and nothing to fear, they're more likely to maintain consistent care as adults. At Tualatin Valley Dental, we make exams comfortable and educational for patients of all ages, helping even our youngest patients understand why we're checking their teeth and what they can do to keep their smiles healthy.

Beyond preventing dental problems, comprehensive exams can actually reveal signs of systemic health issues. Dr. Smith has identified indicators of diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and even some autoimmune conditions during routine dental examinations. Your mouth truly is a window to your overall health, which is why the thorough approach we take at Tualatin Valley Dental serves as an important component of your family's healthcare routine.

What Makes Tualatin Valley Dental Different

As an established practice serving the Tigard community, Tualatin Valley Dental has built a reputation on trust, expertise, and genuine patient care. Dr. Kerri Smith brings years of experience and advanced training to every examination, using state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to ensure nothing is overlooked. Our digital X-rays provide detailed images with significantly less radiation exposure than traditional films, and our intraoral cameras allow you to see exactly what Dr. Smith sees—because we believe informed patients make the best decisions about their care.

What truly sets Tualatin Valley Dental apart is our commitment to building long-term relationships with our patients. We're not interested in recommending unnecessary treatments or rushing you through appointments. Instead, we take the time to explain our findings, answer your questions, and develop treatment plans that align with your health goals and budget. This patient-centered philosophy has made us a trusted dental home for families throughout Tigard, OR.

Schedule Your Family's Dental Exam Today

If it's been more than six months since your last dental exam—or if you're new to the Tigard area and looking for a dental practice you can trust—we invite you to experience the Tualatin Valley Dental difference. Dr. Kerri Smith and our entire team are committed to providing the comprehensive, compassionate care your family deserves.

Don't wait for pain or problems to bring you to the dentist. Preventive care through regular dental exams is the smartest investment you can make in your oral health. Contact Tualatin Valley Dental today at 503-620-6133 to schedule appointments for your entire family. We look forward to partnering with you on the journey to optimal oral health, right here in Tigard, OR.