At the office of Suss Dental Group, we take a preventative mindset: routine oral exams are the foundation of lasting dental health. Regular checkups let us catch small problems before they become complex, and they give our team a chance to tailor care to each patient's situation. During an exam, we combine a careful visual assessment with targeted diagnostics to create a clear picture of your oral health and the best way to maintain it.
Our approach is practical and patient-centered. We explain findings in plain language, outline reasonable next steps, and prioritize treatments that preserve function and appearance. Whether you're bringing in a child for their first visit or returning as an adult with a long dental history, our goal is the same: to keep your mouth healthy, comfortable, and working well for years to come.
Your first exam with our team establishes a baseline we can reference on future visits. We begin by reviewing your medical history and any medications or conditions that might influence oral health. Then we discuss your dental concerns and goals so we can focus the exam where it will be most helpful.
The clinical portion of the visit covers a full-mouth evaluation: teeth, gums, tongue, soft tissues, and the joints that control your bite. We look for early signs of decay, inflammation, unusual lesions, or wear patterns from habits such as grinding. If needed, we will assess your bite mechanics and jaw joint (TMJ) function as part of that evaluation.
Diagnostic imaging is recommended when it adds meaningful information. After the exam and any imaging, we review our observations and make clear recommendations. If treatment is advised, we describe the options, explain the benefits and risks in straightforward terms, and answer your questions so you can make an informed decision.
An oral exam does more than check for cavities. The mouth often mirrors broader health issues, and trained examiners can spot signs that merit further attention. We routinely screen for oral cancer, abnormal sores, and tissue changes, and we document any findings so changes over time can be tracked carefully.
Gum inflammation, unusual bleeding, dry mouth, and persistent oral sores can all be clues that something else is happening systemically. While an oral exam is not a substitute for medical care, it is a powerful triage tool: it helps identify when a medical referral or additional testing would be prudent.
Because of the two-way relationship between oral and general health, maintaining regular exams is a smart strategy for overall well-being. Early detection of oral problems often leads to simpler, less invasive care and can reduce the chance of complications that affect both the mouth and the body.
Many chronic conditions can have oral signs. We pay special attention to symptoms that could indicate issues such as respiratory or cardiovascular concerns, diabetes-related changes, or nutritional deficiencies, and we communicate clearly with patients about what we observe and why follow-up matters.
Daily brushing and flossing are essential, but professional cleanings remove tartar and biofilm from areas your toothbrush and floss can’t always reach. That removal reduces the bacterial load that drives cavities and gum disease, and it helps your mouth stay healthier between visits.
Regular checkups allow us to monitor early changes and intervene before minor issues escalate. For many patients, twice-yearly visits are appropriate; some people with higher risk for gum disease or other conditions may benefit from more frequent monitoring. We tailor recall intervals based on your health, history, and risk factors.
During a cleaning appointment you’ll also get individualized instruction on home-care techniques that address your specific needs—better brushing patterns, proper flossing, and advice on tools like interdental brushes or oral rinses. Education empowers you to protect your investment in a healthy mouth.
We place special emphasis on establishing healthy habits in children so they grow into adults with strong oral foundations. Routine visits let us watch growth and development and identify whether orthodontic guidance or other interventions should be considered as your child’s smile matures.
Visual inspection tells us a lot, but x-rays and other imaging allow us to see beneath the surface. Digital radiographs reveal the health of tooth roots, the condition of supporting bone, and areas between teeth where decay can hide. They are a critical part of a comprehensive exam when signs point to deeper concerns.
Digital radiography has largely replaced traditional film in contemporary practices. Digital sensors produce images instantly, use very low doses of radiation, and allow for easy storage and sharing with specialists when collaborative care is needed. These advantages make imaging safer and more efficient for patients and providers alike.
Common benefits of digital x-rays include faster acquisition, minimal radiation exposure, and the ability to enhance or magnify images for clearer diagnostics. Because images are stored electronically, they can be compared over time to catch subtle changes that warrant attention.
Quick capture with low radiation exposure
Immediate display for discussion during your visit
Easy secure storage and sharing with specialists when needed
Environmentally friendlier—no chemical processing required
Images integrate with your electronic records for long-term tracking
Not every visit requires the same x-rays. We choose the type of image that best answers the clinical question at hand. Small periapical films are useful for close inspection of a single tooth and its root, while bitewings give a clear picture of the crowns where cavities commonly develop.
A full mouth series combines bitewing and periapical views to give a comprehensive snapshot of all teeth and supporting structures when a broad survey is needed. Panoramic films provide a two-dimensional overview of both jaws and can show developing teeth, impacted teeth, and general jawbone contours.
For complex cases—such as implant planning, evaluation of impacted teeth, or surgical needs—we may recommend cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). CBCT produces three-dimensional images that help with precise diagnosis and treatment planning when 2D views are not sufficient.
Periapical x-ray - Focuses on a single tooth from crown to root and adjacent bone.
Bitewing x-ray - Shows crown surfaces of back teeth to detect decay between teeth.
Full Mouth Series - A collection of images giving a complete overview of all teeth.
Panoramic Film (panorex) - Provides a wide view of both jaws and the dentition in one image.
Cephalometric Film - A profile image often used to evaluate facial growth and orthodontic relationships.
When advanced imaging is recommended, we explain why it is helpful and how it informs treatment planning. The choice of imaging is always driven by clinical need and patient safety.
At Suss Dental Group, our oral exam process blends careful observation, modern diagnostics, and clear communication so you leave each visit with a practical plan for preserving your oral health. If you have questions about what to expect at your next exam or would like more information about our screening protocols, please contact us for more information.
Yes. We always welcome new patients and their families for care. Feel free to give us a call or reach out to us online to schedule a first visit or for any additional information on our office. We look forward to hearing from you!
Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings help ensure your smile remains in tip-top condition and that any developing problems receive the prompt care they require. While it's a good idea to schedule a checkup and cleaning twice a year, longer or shorter intervals between routine visits depend on your specific needs.
We understand that life gets complicated and busy, and for various reasons, you haven't been able to get to the dentist for care. Don't worry; it's always a good time to get back in touch with the health of your smile.
At Suss Dental Group, we offer skilled and compassionate care to address a wide range of dental needs. Whether you need a simple checkup and cleaning, restorations, periodontal treatment, root canal therapy, or the replacement of missing teeth to get your smile back into shape, we provide precise, gentle, stress-free treatment to give you a smile that is as beautiful as it is healthy.
Give us a call today; we're happy to address all your questions and concerns about getting your smile back in tip-top condition.
For pregnant women, practicing good oral care and seeing the dentist to maintain a healthy smile is considered an important component of prenatal care. Researchers have found that pregnancy not only increases the risk of oral health problems, but these problems may also lead to pregnancy complications. At the office of Suss Dental Group, we provide the skilled and compassionate care required to help expectant mothers keep their teeth and gums in tip-top condition. While certain procedures are not recommended during pregnancy, we provide the necessary care and take all the necessary precautions required.
Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, teeth that have been affected by a range of imperfections or that have sustained damage from trauma or dental decay can be restored to produce a naturally beautiful looking and functional smile.
As skilled and experienced providers of care, our office can effectively improve and enhance the appearance of teeth that are stained, discolored, misshapen, chipped, fractured, gapped, crowded, or broken down due to dental decay. At the office of Suss Dental Group, we offer a comprehensive selection of the leading-edge cosmetic solutions from teeth whitening procedures, dental bonding, tooth-colored fillings, and veneers, to prosthetic solutions and dental implants to rebuild complete and beautiful smiles.
Contact our office to learn more about the many ways we can help you create the smile you've always wanted.
If you're visiting Suss Dental Group for the first time, it is helpful that you contact your former dental office and have your records sent over to us. Make note of any problems you may have so that you can discuss them with your dentist.
To provide efficient service, we ask you to please bring your insurance card, an ID, plus any referral slips or diagnostic records given to you by another office. If you are taking medications, please note or make a list of what they are as you will need to provide that information.
Yes! We assure you that both you and your family will be in good hands at the office of Suss Dental Group.
We do our best to make sure every patient who steps into our office for care is put at ease. We provide precise and gentle care and our skilled, compassionate team strives to make every visit stress-free. You can rest assured that your smile is in the best of hands and that we are doing all we can to ensure your comfort throughout every procedure. While we always take the time to explain every step in care, feel free to ask us any questions about local anesthesia and methods of dental sedation.
At the office of Suss Dental Group, we strive to provide the highest quality of care to address all your dental needs. Once we've had the opportunity to examine your smile, we can give you a clear picture of any dental issues that are present, along with a quote for what the cost of treatment will be. The cost of care all depends upon the extent and complexity of issues affecting the health or appearance of your smile and the types of procedures that are required. Our goal is to make dental care more affordable so that you can begin treatment without any additional stress or delay.
Keep in mind that with routine dental checkups and periodic care, we can help prevent dental disease while treating emerging problems early in their onset to avoid larger issues and more expensive care down the road.
Routine dental checkups and preventive care procedures may be covered under your dental insurance plan requiring little to no out-of-pocket expense. We invite you to check our financial information page or give us a call to find out if our office participates with your plan, and if you have any other questions about dental insurance, dental savings plans, forms of payment, or financing options. We welcome your inquiries and do our best to help you begin care without additional stress or delay.
If you've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, gum disease, or any other reason, we recommend dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.
Absolutely! Both flossing and brushing regularly are equally important to maintain your oral health. While brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, flossing cleans in between them. Flossing is important to prevent plaque buildup, which can cause gums to recede and lead to periodontal disease.
Even if you have dentures, it is still necessary to see a dentist! Dental checkups help ensure that your dentures are comfortable, fitting properly, and that there are no other problems. Beyond assessing your dentures, our dentist will also perform a thorough examination of the jawbone, and surrounding soft tissues both inside the mouth, the face, and neck, to confirm that you remain in good oral health.
Emergency dental care is a service we hope you'll never need- but if you do, the office of Suss Dental Group is here for you!
Whether you're suffering from a chipped tooth, toothache, or any problem affecting your oral health, you can be sure to get the prompt attention and compassionate care you require at our office. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities, and we offer a comprehensive range of the most advanced services to address a broad spectrum of dental needs.
While the pain of a toothache is one of the more common reasons that patients come to our office for emergency dental care, we also promptly treat emergencies that are not necessarily painful like crowns that have been dislodged and broken dentures that leave embarrassing gaps in one's smile.
You can rest assured that your oral health is in the best of hands at our office. We'll quickly determine exactly what's wrong, explain your treatment options, and then provide the precise and gentle care you require to alleviate your discomfort and get you back on the path to oral health and wellness.
Your health and comfort are our top priorities. If your dental emergency is painful, if it affects the appearance of your smile, or if you suspect that an infection is present, our office will make every effort to see you as soon as possible for care.
At the office of Suss Dental Group, we welcome patients of all ages for care and offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help every member of your family maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. Whether you or a loved one needs a routine checkup and cleaning, fillings, same-day crowns, a cosmetic smile makeover, the replacement of missing teeth or require the services of a skilled and compassionate emergency dentist, you can rely on our office for the highest quality care.
For more information on our office and the many services we provide, or to schedule an appointment for care, give us a call today.
An oral exam is a systematic evaluation of your teeth, gums, soft tissues and jaw that helps detect problems early and guide preventive care. At the office of Suss Dental Group we use oral exams to establish a baseline for your oral health and to tailor recommendations to your needs. Early detection through regular exams often means less invasive treatment and better long-term outcomes.
During an exam we combine visual inspection with targeted diagnostics to form a comprehensive picture of oral health. Findings are explained in plain language so you understand any concerns and the rationale for recommended next steps. This approach ensures care is both practical and patient-centered.
Your initial exam begins with a review of medical history, medications and any dental concerns so the clinician can consider factors that influence oral health. The clinical exam covers teeth, gums, tongue, oral mucosa and jaw function, including evaluation for wear patterns, inflammation or unusual lesions. If needed, diagnostic imaging such as bitewings or a periapical x-ray may be taken to reveal issues not visible on the surface.
After the exam we review findings and discuss recommended next steps in clear terms, including preventive measures and any necessary restorative options. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and to participate in treatment planning based on your goals and priorities. The result is a practical plan to preserve function and appearance over time.
The frequency of oral exams varies by individual risk factors, oral health history and current conditions; many patients benefit from twice-yearly visits while others require more frequent monitoring. We personalize recall intervals by assessing your gum health, decay risk, systemic health influences and lifestyle factors. Regular exams allow us to track subtle changes and intervene before problems progress.
For patients with a history of periodontal disease, frequent cavities or certain medical conditions, we may recommend more frequent checkups to manage risk effectively. Conversely, patients with consistently healthy tissues and low risk may extend intervals with ongoing professional evaluation. The goal is to maintain a schedule that balances prevention with clinical need.
Oral exams include a routine visual and tactile screening of the lips, tongue, floor of mouth, cheeks and throat to identify sores, white or red patches, or other tissue changes that could indicate oral cancer. Clinicians document findings and compare them over time so any suspicious changes are noticed promptly. When something unusual is observed, we explain the concern and recommend appropriate follow-up testing or specialist evaluation.
Early detection of oral cancer greatly improves treatment options and outcomes, which is why consistent screening is an important part of every exam. We also discuss risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use and instruct patients on signs to watch for between visits. Communication and timely referral are central to our screening protocol.
Digital x-rays and other imaging tools reveal areas that are not visible during a visual inspection, including tooth roots, bone level, interproximal decay and developing pathology. We select the type of image—bitewing, periapical, panoramic or CBCT—based on the clinical question at hand to provide the most useful diagnostic information. Digital imaging offers rapid results, low radiation exposure and the ability to enhance images for clearer interpretation.
Because images are stored electronically, they can be compared over time to detect subtle changes and shared securely with specialists when collaborative care is needed. We always explain why an image is recommended and how it contributes to diagnosis and treatment planning. Patient safety and clinical necessity guide every imaging decision.
An oral exam often provides clues about systemic health because conditions such as diabetes, nutritional deficiencies and cardiovascular disease can manifest in the mouth. Symptoms like unusual bleeding, persistent dry mouth or recurring sores may prompt discussion about underlying medical issues and, when appropriate, a referral to a medical provider. The mouth and body are connected, and dental findings can be an important part of a patient’s broader health picture.
We document oral findings and communicate their potential systemic relevance in clear terms so patients can make informed decisions about follow-up care. Regular exams support early detection of both oral and related systemic issues, which can reduce the need for more complex care later. Collaboration between dental and medical providers improves overall outcomes.
Preparation for an oral exam is straightforward: bring a list of current medications, note any recent medical changes and be ready to discuss symptoms or concerns you have noticed. Good hygiene before the visit—brushing and flossing—helps clinicians evaluate your baseline condition without excess debris, although cleaning will be part of the appointment when indicated. If you have dental records or recent x-rays from another office, bringing them or arranging transfer can speed diagnosis and planning.
If you have questions about specific procedures, imaging or how your medical history affects dental care, write them down so they can be addressed during the visit. Clear communication about pain, sensitivity, bleeding or functional changes helps us prioritize the exam. The goal is to make the appointment efficient and informative for both you and the clinician.
We recognize that dental anxiety and gag sensitivity are common and take steps to make exams more comfortable, including clear explanations, breaks as needed and the use of smaller instruments or alternative techniques. Our team discusses comfort options in advance and tailors the pace of the exam to each patient’s tolerance level. Simple behavioral strategies and a calm environment often make a significant difference.
For patients with more severe anxiety, we review sedation or relaxation options and explain how they are safely integrated into routine care when appropriate. Every effort is made to respect patient preferences while ensuring a thorough and accurate exam. Open communication allows us to create a plan that balances comfort with quality diagnostics.
Oral exams for children focus on growth and development in addition to cavity prevention, with attention to tooth eruption patterns, bite relationships and habits such as thumb-sucking or grinding. Pediatric exams emphasize education and habit formation, and clinicians provide age-appropriate guidance on home care, fluoride use and preventive strategies like sealants when indicated. Establishing routine visits early helps children become comfortable with dental care and builds a foundation for lifelong oral health.
As children mature we monitor orthodontic concerns and jaw development so referrals can be made at the optimal time if interceptive treatment is needed. For adults, exams often emphasize periodontal health, restoration maintenance and management of wear or bite-related issues. Each exam is tailored to the patient’s stage of life and specific clinical needs, whether in Bergenfield, New Jersey or elsewhere.
Additional tests or specialist referrals are recommended when findings exceed the scope of a routine exam or when advanced diagnostics are needed for precise treatment planning. Examples include persistent lesions that require biopsy, complex occlusal or jaw problems that benefit from an oral surgeon or TMJ specialist, and implant or surgical planning that requires CBCT imaging. Referrals are made to ensure patients receive the most appropriate, evidence-based care for complex conditions.
We explain the reason for any referral or test, what to expect next and how the information will inform treatment options. Collaboration with other clinicians is presented as a coordinated step in achieving the best possible outcome. Our emphasis is on clear communication and thoughtful, clinically driven decision-making.
Ready to schedule your next dental appointment or have questions about our services?
Contacting Suss Dental Group is easy! Our friendly staff is available to assist you with scheduling appointments, answering inquiries about treatment options, and addressing any concerns you may have. Whether you prefer to give us a call, send us an email, or fill out our convenient online contact form, we're here to help. Don't wait to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams – reach out to us today and discover the difference personalized dental care can make.
