Dental Examination Procedure

Introduction

• Brief overview of a cursory screening of the mouth.
• Emphasis on quick examination and identifying any major issues.

Initial Examination

• Teeth Check:
  • Quick assessment of teeth
  • Compliment on nice teeth (subject: Ginger)

Palpation and Inspection

• Palpation Technique:

  • Stretch lips
  • Use circular motion with both fingers
  • Adjust technique as necessary
  • Wipe excess moisture on a napkin

• Oral Mucosa Inspection:

  • Check buccal mucosa by manually palpating
  • Repeat on the other side

Tongue and Floor of Mouth Examination

• Tongue Inspection:

  • Ask patient to lift tongue to roof of mouth
  • Examine floor of mouth manually
  • Apply pressure to detect abnormalities

• Additional Tools:

  • Request for a golf square, use of Q-tips

Detailed Examination

• Tongue:

  • Inspect for abnormalities such as scars from piercings
  • Use circular motions for palpation

• Palate and Throat:

  • Assess palate for any tori (bony growths)
  • Check throat for redness, enlarged tonsils, pus, petechiae

Gingiva and Alveolar Process

• Gingiva Examination:

  • Use mirror to check gingiva thoroughly
  • Identify spots, fistulas (gum boils)

• Alveolar Process:

  • Palpate with fingers in circular motion
  • Note excess ptosis or bone overgrowth

Salivary Glands and Flow

• Salivary Gland Check:

  • Focus on parotid glands near first molar
  • Use Q-tip to stimulate saliva flow
  • Check for saliva reaction

• Floor of Mouth:

  • Dry area and check for saliva flow
  • Caution against being too close due to potential saliva spray

Conclusion

• Procedure includes thorough examination of mouth
• Ensures detection of abnormalities or unusual findings
• Notes on ensuring patient comfort and effectiveness of examination.