New Patient Dental Exams in Port Coquitlam
Choosing the right dentist is about more than just convenience—it’s about building a relationship with a team you trust to look after your long-term health. At Elemental Dental in Port Coquitlam, your new patient exam is the first step in creating that relationship. It’s not just a check-up—it’s a comprehensive, personalized assessment of your oral health, medical history, lifestyle habits, and future goals.
We understand that dentistry can feel overwhelming to those unfamiliar with what’s going on inside their mouths. That’s why Dr. Ben and our team are committed to giving you the time, space, and education needed to feel confident in your care.
What Happens During a New Patient Dental Exam?
A new patient examination at Elemental Dental includes a series of evaluations, recordings, and diagnostics that give us a full picture of your current oral and overall health. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Medical and Dental History Review
We’ll begin by reviewing your full medical and dental history, medications, and any concerns or symptoms you’re experiencing. This ensures we tailor your care appropriately—especially if you’re managing conditions like diabetes, dry mouth, or taking medications that may impact oral health.
2. Head, Neck & TMJ Assessment
We perform a detailed extraoral exam to check for lumps, swelling, or asymmetry. This includes assessing the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for any clicking, popping, discomfort, or restricted movement that may suggest jaw dysfunction, clenching, or grinding.
3. Oral Cancer & Soft Tissue Screening
We carefully examine the soft tissues inside your mouth—including your tongue, gums, tonsils, cheeks, floor of mouth, and salivary ducts—to screen for any abnormal lesions or early signs of oral cancer.
4. Gum Health & Periodontal Evaluation
Your periodontal health is critical to your overall health. Using a periodontal probe, we measure gum pocket depths and record signs of inflammation, recession, or bone loss. This helps determine if you are at risk for gingivitis or periodontitis and what preventive or therapeutic care may be needed.
5. Tooth-by-Tooth Assessment
We then examine the status of each tooth, looking for:
- Chips, cracks, wear or erosion
- Stains and discoloration
- Cavities and caries activity
- Tooth mobility or bite issues
- Existing restorations or dental work
This assessment helps us understand not just the health of your teeth, but also their function and aesthetics—so we can support both.
6. Digital X-Rays & Photographs
We take digital dental x-rays and intraoral photographs as needed. These help us see below the surface—identifying problems such as infections, hidden cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth—and provide a clear visual reference to monitor your dental health over time.
7. Discussion & Treatment Planning
You’ll have time to speak with Dr. Ben about any concerns or goals you may have—whether that’s addressing pain, improving your smile, or preventing future problems. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan based on your clinical needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
What If I’m in Pain or Have an Existing Problem?
Sometimes, patients come to us with an immediate concern—such as a toothache, cracked tooth, or sensitivity. In these cases, we’ll perform focused diagnostic tests, such as:
- Percussion and bite tests
- Cold testing
- Digital imaging
Dr. Ben will identify the likely cause of the problem and walk you through the appropriate treatment options, which may include fillings, root canal therapy, or extractions. Our goal is always to resolve pain conservatively and comfortably, with your long-term health in mind.
More Than a Check-Up: A Holistic, Patient-Centered Approach
We believe that the mouth is a window to the body. Mounting research continues to link oral inflammation to systemic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illness, and more. That’s why we approach new patient exams with the goal of helping you understand how your oral health impacts your overall wellness.
At Elemental Dental, your comfort, understanding, and trust are our top priorities. We don’t rush appointments—we create space for conversations and education, so you always feel informed and empowered.
Looking for a new dentist in Port Coquitlam?
We welcome new patients of all ages. Book your comprehensive new patient dental exam today and take the first step toward better oral health—with a team that cares about the whole picture.