Initial examination and consultation: Your first step to a healthy smile

Our initial examination is a comprehensive and thorough process that allows us to get a complete picture of the state of your oral health. It is not just a quick check, but a detailed assessment of all aspects of your oral cavity. It usually includes the following steps:

• Detailed medical history: At the beginning, the doctor will talk to you about your general medical history (previous illnesses, medications, allergies) and specifically about the history of your dental problems, previous treatments, your oral hygiene habits, as well as your expectations and any concerns. This interview is key to understanding your individual needs and risk factors.
• Extraoral clinical examination: The doctor will assess the symmetry of your face, the condition of the jaw joints (mobility, pain, sounds when opening the mouth) and feel for regional lymph nodes.
• Intraoral clinical examination: This is the core of the examination itself. The doctor will carefully check:
  • Teeth: We look for tooth decay (including hidden interdental decay), cracks, enamel wear, the quality and tightness of existing fillings and prosthetic work (crowns, bridges). We use a special probe and mirror, often an intraoral camera for detailed visualization.
  • Gums and periodontium: We assess the condition of the gums – their color, shape, possible swelling, redness, bleeding. We measure the depth of the periodontal pockets using a periodontal probe in order to detect possible signs of gingivitis (gum inflammation) or periodontitis (disease of the tooth’s supporting apparatus) in time.
  • Soft tissues: We examine the mucous membranes of the cheeks, palate, tongue and floor of the oral cavity. We look for any changes, ulcers, canker sores, or suspicious lesions that could signal more serious conditions (including oral cancer screening).
  • Teeth examination and positioning: We check how the upper and lower teeth fit together and assess any orthodontic anomalies.
  • Oral hygiene level: We assess the presence of plaque and tartar, which helps us recommend the most effective cleaning methods and, if necessary, the frequency of visits to the dental hygienist.
• Diagnostic imaging methods: We use modern imaging techniques to comprehensively assess the condition, especially areas that are not visible to the naked eye. X-rays are often an essential part of the initial examination. At Dobrý Dent we have:
  • Intraoral X-ray: For detailed imaging of individual teeth or their groups (so-called bitewing images to detect interdental caries, periapical images to assess the roots and surrounding bone).
  • Panoramic X-ray (OPG): Provides a clear image of both jaws, all teeth (including unerupted ones), maxillary sinuses and joints.
  • 3D CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography): Our clinic is equipped with a state-of-the-art 3D X-ray, which allows you to obtain a three-dimensional image of the jaws and teeth with high accuracy and relatively low radiation exposure. CBCT is invaluable when planning implants, wisdom tooth extractions, endodontic treatment (root canal treatment) or diagnosing more complex cases.
• Using other technologies: For maximum accuracy and comfort, we can also use other advanced tools:
  • Intraoral camera: It allows us and you to see a detailed magnified image of your teeth and gums on the monitor. This will help you better understand the findings and proposed solutions.
  • Diagnostic microscope: In some cases, the doctor may use a dental microscope for an extremely detailed examination of the tooth surface, revealing microscopic cracks or checking the edges of fillings.
  • 3D Intraoral scanner: We often use a digital scanner to plan prosthetics (crowns, bridges) or orthodontics. This replaces the unpleasant impression using materials and creates a highly accurate 3D model of your teeth on the computer.

You may be wondering why it is necessary to undergo such a comprehensive examination, especially if you are not in any acute pain. There are several reasons:

• Prevention and early diagnosis: Many dental problems, such as incipient caries or periodontitis, are painless in their early stages. A thorough examination, including X-rays, can detect them early, when treatment is easier, less invasive, and also less expensive. Early diagnosis is the best prevention of extensive damage and tooth loss.
• Establishing an accurate diagnosis: Without a comprehensive view, it is impossible to establish a correct diagnosis and subsequently an effective treatment plan. A superficial check can overlook hidden problems.
• Individual treatment plan: Based on the facts we find, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, wishes and financial capabilities.
• Basis for future comparison: A detailed record of the condition of your oral cavity during the initial examination serves as a reference point for monitoring development over time during regular preventive examinations.
• Building trust: The initial examination is a great opportunity for you to get to know our doctors, the clinic environment and our approach to care. We want you to feel safe and informed with us.
• Discovering overall health connections: The condition of the oral cavity can be related to some general diseases (e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular diseases). A careful examination can help to reveal these connections as well.

The examination itself is only one part of the process. The subsequent consultation is just as important. After all diagnostic steps are completed, the doctor will sit down with you and discuss all the findings in detail.

• Understandable explanation: The doctor will explain to you clearly and comprehensibly what the examination revealed. Using X-rays, photos from an intraoral camera or 3D models, he will show you specific findings.
• Discussion of treatment options: If any intervention is needed, the doctor will present all relevant treatment options to you, including their advantages, disadvantages, time requirements and expected lifespan.
• Preventive recommendations: The consultation also includes advice on proper oral hygiene, appropriate appliances and eating habits to help prevent future problems. We will also recommend an appropriate frequency of dental hygiene visits.
• Space for your questions: We place great emphasis on open communication. During the consultation, you have enough space to ask anything that interests or concerns you. We want you to understand everything perfectly and be able to make an informed decision.
• Preparation of an individual treatment plan: Based on a joint discussion, we will prepare a detailed treatment plan. This will include the individual treatment steps, their timetable, and a transparent financial budget. We always try to find the optimal solution that will suit your health needs and personal preferences.

At Dobrý Dent, we believe that the patient must be a partner in the care of their health. Therefore, it is crucial for us that you are fully informed and actively participate in the decision-making about your treatment.

At Dobrý Dent Clinic, we invest in the most modern technologies because we believe they are essential for providing top-notch care. During the initial examination and subsequent treatment, you may encounter:

• Digital radiography (including 3D CBCT): Minimal radiation exposure, immediate imaging and high diagnostic accuracy to detect even the smallest problems.
• Intraoral scanner: Comfortable and fast digital impressions without unpleasant masses, the basis for precise planning of prosthetics and braces.
• Dental microscope: Enables multiple magnification of the working field, which is key for precise work, especially in endodontics (root canal treatment) and microsurgery, but also for detailed diagnostics.
• STA system (The Wand): Computer-controlled application of anesthesia, which ensures maximum gentle and virtually painless anesthesia. Your comfort is our priority.

These technologies allow us to work with maximum precision, minimize the invasiveness of the procedures, and ensure you have the most pleasant experience possible when visiting the dental office.

We recommend a comprehensive initial examination and consultation for anyone who:

• Is looking for a new dentist in Prague.
• Has not had a preventive examination for more than a year.
• Has a specific dental problem or pain.
• Is not satisfied with their current teeth and is considering aesthetic or functional reconstruction.
• Wants to get a second opinion on the proposed treatment plan.
• Plans more extensive dental treatment (implants, braces, prosthetics).
• Wants to actively take care of their oral health and prevent problems.

When you first visit our clinic at Jindřicha Plachty 535/16, Prague 5 – Smíchov (near Anděl), you will be welcomed by our friendly staff in a modern and pleasant environment. We strive to make you feel relaxed and comfortable with us. After the initial administration, you will be taken care of by a doctor who will go through the entire process of initial examination and consultation with you, as described above. Please allow enough time for your first visit (usually 60-90 minutes) so that we can do everything carefully and without rushing.

Our goal is not only to solve your current problems, but above all to set a long-term care strategy that will ensure you a healthy and beautiful smile for life. The Dobrý Dent team consists of experienced doctors and specialists who are constantly educating themselves in the latest procedures and technologies. Your health and satisfaction are our top priority.

Don’t put off taking care of your teeth. A comprehensive initial examination and consultation at Dobrý Dent is an investment in your health and self-confidence. Make an appointment and see the difference that modern dentistry with a human approach brings.