The intra-oral and extra-oral soft tissue examination is an essential part of all dental exams. This examination is performed in a thorough and systematic nature to ensure that no parts of the head and neck region are missed or overlooked.
This examination can be broken down into sequential steps to review all tissues and to determine if they are within normal limits (WNL) or if there is an abnormality noted.
If an abnormality is noted in an intra/extra-oral examination, further detailed notes about the abnormality such as size, colour, location, surface texture, and consistency are made. Information about the onset, location, duration, characteristics, aggravating and alleviating factors, related symptoms, and treatment are all considered by your dental hygienist and periodontist.
As part of a full intra/extra-oral examination for abnormalities in our oral pathology, a detailed medical history, family history, drug/medication history, and social history are taken.
As a patient, we can prepare for our intra/extra-oral examination by being aware of any abnormal colouration, bumps, textures, or sensations in our head and neck region.
A full video of what to expect during a full intra/extra-oral examination by your dental hygienist or periodontist can be viewed below.
