Many people postpone visiting the dentist due to concerns about treatment costs. However, early dental check-ups are actually a highly effective solution, as they help detect and treat oral conditions promptly before they worsen. In the article below, Shark Dental Clinic will help you clearly understand the dental examination & consultation process, enabling you to build a more scientific and proactive oral care plan.
What does a dental consultation include?
Understanding the dental examination & consultation process can help alleviate any anxiety you may have about visiting the dentist. Below is a standard workflow for a dental check-up and consultation, which typically includes the following steps:
- General examination of teeth and gums: The dentist will carefully inspect your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Specialized instruments may be used to measure the depth of periodontal pockets as part of the early screening for periodontal disease.
- X-ray imaging and necessary tests: Depending on your specific oral health condition, the dentist may recommend dental X-rays to view areas that aren’t visible to the naked eye, such as tooth roots or underlying structures. In some cases, saliva tests may be conducted to identify harmful bacteria.
- Treatment planning and oral care guidance: After reviewing the examination results, the dentist will explain the appropriate treatment options in detail. You will also receive instructions on proper brushing techniques, correct use of dental floss, and dietary adjustments to maintain optimal oral health.

What is the difference between a consultation and a dental exam?
Many patients often confuse a dental consultation with a general dental examination. In fact, these two processes differ in purpose and procedure, as outlined below:
- Dental consultation: This is a focused discussion about specific dental needs, such as orthodontic treatment, porcelain crowns, or cosmetic procedures. The primary goal is for the dentist to answer your questions, propose treatment options, and help you clearly understand the procedure, timeline, and associated costs.
- General dental examination: This is a comprehensive clinical assessment that involves a thorough evaluation of the entire oral cavity to screen for dental diseases or abnormalities in the jawbone. A general exam is often combined with professional cleaning services, such as dental scaling.
Key differences at a glance:
| Characteristics | General dental exam | Dental consultation |
| Purpose | Routine screening for oral diseases | Addressing specific treatment or aesthetic needs such as crowns or braces |
| Content | Checking for cavities, gum health, and performing scaling | Creating a treatment plan and providing a cost estimate |
| Frequency | Every 6 months | When treatment or cosmetic services are needed |
How long does a dental consultation usually take?
On average, a dental examination & consultation lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes. However, the actual duration may vary depending on your individual oral health conditions:
- Current oral health status: If you are attending a routine check-up, the process is usually quick. However, if you are experiencing issues such as toothache or sensitivity, the dentist may require additional time for a more thorough examination and may request X-rays to identify the exact cause.
- Purpose of the visit: For more complex needs, such as orthodontics, porcelain crowns, or dental implants, consultations typically take longer. The dentist may need to perform advanced procedures like facial photography, digital impressions, and developing a detailed treatment plan.
- Consultation and Q&A: For first-time patients, the dentist will spend time understanding your oral hygiene habits and medical history. This helps address your concerns, ease anxiety, and ensure a smoother and more reassuring treatment experience later on.

Free dental examination & consultation at Shark Dental Clinic
To help clients proactively care for their oral health, Shark Dental Clinic offers a free dental examination and consultation with a professional, patient-centered approach:
- Clinical examination with basic procedures: The dentist conducts a direct assessment of your teeth and gums using visual inspection and specialized instruments. This allows for the identification of visible issues such as cavities, tartar buildup, or gingivitis.
- X-ray imaging when necessary: If internal problems are suspected, the dentist may recommend dental X-rays. At Shark Dental Clinic, this step is often included free of charge in initial consultation packages, ensuring sufficient information for accurate treatment planning.
- Treatment consultation and transparent pricing: Based on the examination results, the dentist will propose the most suitable treatment solutions along with a detailed and transparent cost breakdown. Patients are welcome to review this information and make decisions without any obligation to proceed immediately after the consultation.

In summary, regular dental examination & consultation are the most effective way to monitor oral health and promptly address potential issues. If you are experiencing dental symptoms or wish to assess your current oral condition, please contact Shark Dental Clinic via hotline (+84) 941 623 322 for prompt consultation and professional support from our dedicated team.
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