During your first appointment at our office, our dentists and team will perform a complete oral examination, including a visual inspection, periodontal evaluation and diagnosis. As part of the visual inspection, we will closely examine your teeth, their supporting structures and the oral anatomy. We may also use digital X-rays to diagnose tooth decay, bone loss and other dental problems. We may also perform an oral cancer screening, which helps us detect any abnormalities in the oral tissues. This exam is important so that any emerging problematic issues can be detected early, when the conditions are easier to treat.