Comprehensive Oral Exams in Brooklyn, NY

A full evaluation of teeth, gums, bite and soft tissues, with X-rays where needed.

Comprehensive Oral Exams in Brooklyn, NY

A full evaluation of teeth, gums, bite and soft tissues, with X-rays where needed.

What Is a Comprehensive Oral Exam?

A comprehensive oral exam is the starting point for all dental care at Bensonhurst Dental Care. More thorough than a routine checkup, this exam provides a complete evaluation of the teeth, gums, jaw, bite, and surrounding oral structures. It is designed to establish a detailed baseline of each patient’s oral health and to identify any existing conditions or early warning signs that may require attention.

Comprehensive Oral Exams: Quick Facts


Quick fact

Typical answer

Number of visits

1

Time needed

45 to 60 minutes

Anesthesia

None

How often

At your first visit, then every 3 to 5 years or when your health changes

Includes

X-rays, gum measurements, bite check and oral cancer screening

These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.

Who Should Have a Comprehensive Exam

This exam is particularly important for new patients, patients who have not been seen in an extended period, or anyone experiencing symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, or changes in their oral health. It also serves as the diagnostic foundation for treatment planning across cosmetic, restorative, and preventive services. Without a thorough understanding of what is happening in the mouth, no treatment plan can be truly effective.

A comprehensive exam gives a complete baseline of your oral health. It is the visit at which a long-term plan is made, so it takes longer and looks at more than a routine check-up.

  • You are new to the practice

  • You have not seen a dentist in more than two years

  • You have pain, sensitivity, bleeding gums or a change you cannot explain

  • You are planning cosmetic, implant or orthodontic treatment

  • You have a medical condition or medication that affects your mouth

Comprehensive Oral Exams at Bensonhurst Dental Care

During a comprehensive exam, the dental team evaluates tooth integrity, gum health, bite alignment, and the condition of any existing restorations. Diagnostic imaging, including digital X-rays, is used to reveal issues that are not visible to the eye, such as decay between teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth. Soft tissue screenings are also performed to check for signs of oral pathology. Every finding is documented and discussed with the patient so they have a clear understanding of their current health and any recommended next steps.

What to Expect, Step by Step

  1. Health history. We review your medical history, medications and any concerns.

  2. X-rays. Digital X-rays are taken where needed to see between teeth and below the gums.

  3. Tooth-by-tooth exam. Each tooth and existing restoration is checked for decay, cracks and wear.

  4. Gum measurements. The depth of the gum pockets is measured around every tooth.

  5. Bite, jaw and soft tissue check. The jaw joints, bite and the lining of the mouth are examined, including an oral cancer screening.

  6. Findings and plan. We explain what we found and agree priorities with you.

What a comprehensive exam covers


Area checked

What we look for

Why it matters

Teeth

Decay, cracks, wear, failing fillings

Small repairs prevent large ones

Gums and bone

Pocket depth, bleeding, recession, bone levels

Gum disease is usually painless until advanced

Bite and jaw joints

Uneven contacts, clicking, muscle tenderness

Bite problems wear and break teeth

Soft tissues

Sores, lumps, color changes

Early detection of oral cancer

A good exam answers three questions: what is healthy, what needs watching, and what needs treatment now.

Before and After Your Visit

Getting the most from your appointment

Before your visit

  • Bring a list of your medications and any recent dental X-rays

  • Note any teeth or areas that have bothered you

  • Arrive a few minutes early to complete your health history

After your visit

  • Review the written treatment plan and ask about anything unclear

  • Book the first priority item before you leave

  • Schedule your next routine visit

When to Call Us

Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:

  • A tooth becomes painful before your planned treatment

  • You notice swelling in your gums or face

  • A sore in your mouth has not healed after two weeks

Related Screenings

Comprehensive exams are complemented by oral cancer screenings and, when indicated, advanced diagnostic tools such as salivary diagnostics. Together, these evaluations ensure that nothing is overlooked and that every patient receives care informed by a complete picture of their oral health.

Cost and Insurance

Preventative visits are the least expensive part of dental care, and they reduce the need for larger treatment later.

What affects the cost

  • Whether X-rays are due

  • The type of cleaning your gums need

  • Add-on services such as fluoride, sealants or laser bacterial reduction

  • Custom appliances such as nightguards and sports guards, which include a laboratory fee

Most dental plans cover exams, cleanings and X-rays at a high rate, often twice a year. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.

For typical price ranges, read our guide to how much a dentist visit costs in Brooklyn.

Meet the doctor

Dr. Marina Rubinshtein

Brooklyn dentist with more than 24 years in private practice, offering general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. An NYU graduate focused on helping patients achieve healthy, natural-looking smiles.

Brooklyn dentist with more than 24 years in private practice, offering general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. An NYU graduate focused on helping patients achieve healthy, natural-looking smiles.

Brooklyn dentist with more than 24 years in private practice, offering general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. An NYU graduate focused on helping patients achieve healthy, natural-looking smiles.

Learn more about doctor

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a comprehensive exam different from a regular checkup?

A regular checkup typically focuses on monitoring known conditions and maintaining routine care. A comprehensive exam is more in-depth, evaluating the entire oral environment from scratch, including the teeth, gums, bone, jaw joints, bite, and soft tissues. It is the most thorough evaluation the practice offers.

How often should I have a comprehensive exam?

Most patients receive a comprehensive exam at their initial visit and then periodically as needed, often every three to five years or when significant changes in oral health occur. Routine checkups and cleanings continue on a regular schedule between comprehensive exams.

What should I expect during the appointment?

The appointment includes a visual examination, digital X-rays, periodontal assessment, soft tissue screening, and a detailed review of any findings with the dentist. Patients are encouraged to share any symptoms, concerns, or goals so the exam can be as informative as possible.

Is a comprehensive exam necessary if I’m not experiencing any problems?

Yes. Many dental conditions, including decay, gum disease, and oral pathology, can develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. A comprehensive exam is designed to detect these issues before they progress, which is always easier, less invasive, and less costly to address early.

Will the exam include X-rays?

In most cases, yes. Digital X-rays provide essential diagnostic information that cannot be obtained through a visual exam alone. They are low-radiation, fast, and critical for identifying hidden decay, bone loss, and other concerns beneath the surface.

What Our Patients Say

Hello everyone, I would like to highlight the brilliant work of Dr. Geoffrey, who performed the installation of two implants on my lower jaw for me. I lost 2 teeth a long time ago and unfortunately at that time no one informed me that it is necessary to install dental implants as soon as possible, before the bone tissue began to decrease. Now I know all this and much more about teeth and caring for them, thanks to the Bensonhurst Dental team. My greatest fear was that I had lost too much bone tissue. The Bensonhurst Dental team took care of me. Dr. Geoffrey, a periodontist, examined the bone tissue and assured me that we would be able to build up bone tissue and install dental implants. Dr. Marina, a specialist in cosmetic dentistry, and Dr. Nick, an orthodontist, recommended starting with orthodontic treatment, because due to the absence of several chewing teeth, the remaining teeth began to move and tilted so that there was not enough space for installing implants and crowns. Time flies and I will soon finish my orthodontic treatment, and a few months ago we were able to install dental implants, a couple of weeks ago we installed gum formers and very soon we will start work on installing crowns. But I am not going to stop there, because teeth need to be taken care of constantly, a healthy, beautiful smile makes us attractive and young. I can't wait until we finish the ortho treatment and install the implants crowns. After that, it is necessary to do a good cleaning of the teeth and I think to do whitening! Learn from other people's mistakes and choose good dentists!

Local Guide · 25 reviews · 66 photos

My experience with Dr. Daniel and the team was second to none. I first met with Aurora, the patient coordinator- she was pleasant and energetic and I felt like she was excited to speak with me. Once I came into the office for my consultation with Dr. Daniel, I was greeted by the nicest front desk staff. They immediately offered me water and/or a smoothie and just overall ensured I was comfortable. When I was called inside, I met Dr. Daniel’s assistant Stephanie, who I’ve felt like I have known for years. She was so kind and reassuring and my nerves instantly calmed. The team took several photos, X-rays, scans and EVEN had their hygienist come to evaluate the overall health of my gums and teeth. After the initial examinations, I met with Dr. Daniel and without me giving away too much, he understood what this process meant to me. We talked through my wants and concerns, and he answered every single question I asked. By the end of my first appointment, I knew that I was right where I needed to be and with who I was meant to be with. My second appointment was to view my “would be” smile- I was stunned and so impressed. My third appointment was to get my temporary veneers, while it was a long day- Dr. Daniel and team continued to check on me and ask if I was in pain, etc. When we finished with my temporary veneers and I was complete shock and disbelief at how I have just transformed. I was beyond pleased, and the response from my family and friends were overwhelming. Now with my final look, with such a quick turnaround from start to finish… my confidence has been restored, I genuinely feel happier and I do owe it all to the hard work, care and expertise of Dr. Daniel and his incredible team!

Local Guide · 15 reviews · 2 photos

Some background: I am in my mid twenties and dealing with a crooked, crowded smile. My past experiences with straightening my smile resulted in crazy billing, miscommunications, and being sent to a million different offices. After some dedicated research I found the “one stop shop” I was looking for at Benson Hurst Dental. I began with a few phone call consultations with the friendly Shana that briefed my needs, wants, and overall goals. They made it clear from the beginning they will work urgently but it does come with a pretty large price tag. Nonetheless, my first visit involved a complete exam with each in-house professional, who preformed detailed xrays and took many photos for documentation. The first in office experience ended with Aurora going above and beyond to ensure my future appointments were set up on days that didn’t interfere with work, and created a payment plan that also fit my needs. Elisa preformed my cleaning the following appointment with my comfort as the first priority and the details of my teeth as a very close second. She went above and beyond to bring my teeth back to life and prepare me to maintain them accordingly. So far the process has been seamless and painless, and an overall pleasure working with the team. Thank you Benson Hurst Dental!

My experience begins with Karen at the front desk. She makes you feel right at home immediately when you walk in the door. A fantastic experience like never experienced before. This is a great place to go take care of your teeth. Dr Rubinshtein team was very professional examining and providing solutions by priority. A simple visit turned into a work of art when they were done with my porcelain veneers. The best dental care I have ever experienced! Professional, courteous, and friendly staff made me feel like family. I highly recommend to anyone looking to visit a dentist to look no further and make your next appointment with Bensonhurst dental!

7 reviews · 1 photo

The office is the place to come when you are committed to having your life changed. I previously had veneers for 3-4 years and I was never happy with them. They didn’t suit my face and the color was so dull. My first experience was the consult. In which I was was given a first class experience. A thorough exam by the periodontist Dr Geoffrey and his Hygiene team, X-rays, and a 3D scan. Sharon, a dental assistant guided me through every step which I found thoughtful. As my usual experience at a dental office. They rarely explain anything. They ordered me a smoothie upon arrival which I have never seen before. Then came time to have my smile design, which I completely fell in love with. The fact hat you can see your smile before you commit to it is amazing. Finally prep day! i was greeted by front desk Paige and she made me feel so comfortable. I was nervous. She then ordered me a smoothie and escorted me to Stephanie, Dr. Daniels assistant. Stephanie made me feel at home. I was given a blanket and we talked and laughed. She told me how excited she was to see my new smile. Dr. Daniel has the hands of an angel when he gives you the anesthesia. Fast forward to today, I got to see the veneers before cementing them and tried them on. Once cemented Dr. Marina checked my bite and let me tell you she is a BITE EXPERT! My bite has never felt great! I’m so thankful I choose this team and I’m part of the friends and family as they say! I love you Bensonhurt dental team!!

6 reviews

As a practicing oral and maxillofacial surgeon, I am no stranger to routine dental care. I am not the most easily impressed type and even I will tell you that the comprehensive dental team at Bensonhurst Dental Care deserves top rating. The team is led by Dr Alex Rubinstein, Dr Marina Rubinstein and Dr Daniel Rubinstein. The organization is brilliantly complemented by the office manager, Vera and the hygienist, Valerie; not to mention the friendly and enthusiastic front desk and assistant staff. In the age of insurance and volume dentistry, Bensonhurst Dental Care group manages to return to basics and slow things down for the patient. Treatment is done by the book; just as it was thought in dental school. Records are collected with appropriate radiographs and CLINICAL PHOTOS! Oral cancer screen is performed on the first visit as part of the initial examination. Valerie, who performs hygiene, is incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and has excellent hands (compliment which I will not dispense lightly) The team is clearly well versed in the latest technology which spans the use of the newest dental restorative materials, endodontic treatment, imaging and data technology as well as judicious use of dental lasers. As a professional, I certainly admire a health care organization which will take the time to ensure patient's comfort and education while providing the cutting edge dental care. For a discriminating dental patient who is willing to invest his valuable time toward an excellent experience and improved dental health, I would strongly endorse Bensonhurst Dental Care.

4 reviews

Hello everyone, I would like to highlight the brilliant work of Dr. Geoffrey, who performed the installation of two implants on my lower jaw for me. I lost 2 teeth a long time ago and unfortunately at that time no one informed me that it is necessary to install dental implants as soon as possible, before the bone tissue began to decrease. Now I know all this and much more about teeth and caring for them, thanks to the Bensonhurst Dental team. My greatest fear was that I had lost too much bone tissue. The Bensonhurst Dental team took care of me. Dr. Geoffrey, a periodontist, examined the bone tissue and assured me that we would be able to build up bone tissue and install dental implants. Dr. Marina, a specialist in cosmetic dentistry, and Dr. Nick, an orthodontist, recommended starting with orthodontic treatment, because due to the absence of several chewing teeth, the remaining teeth began to move and tilted so that there was not enough space for installing implants and crowns. Time flies and I will soon finish my orthodontic treatment, and a few months ago we were able to install dental implants, a couple of weeks ago we installed gum formers and very soon we will start work on installing crowns. But I am not going to stop there, because teeth need to be taken care of constantly, a healthy, beautiful smile makes us attractive and young. I can't wait until we finish the ortho treatment and install the implants crowns. After that, it is necessary to do a good cleaning of the teeth and I think to do whitening! Learn from other people's mistakes and choose good dentists!

Local Guide · 25 reviews · 66 photos

My experience begins with Karen at the front desk. She makes you feel right at home immediately when you walk in the door. A fantastic experience like never experienced before. This is a great place to go take care of your teeth. Dr Rubinshtein team was very professional examining and providing solutions by priority. A simple visit turned into a work of art when they were done with my porcelain veneers. The best dental care I have ever experienced! Professional, courteous, and friendly staff made me feel like family. I highly recommend to anyone looking to visit a dentist to look no further and make your next appointment with Bensonhurst dental!

7 reviews · 1 photo

My experience with Dr. Daniel and the team was second to none. I first met with Aurora, the patient coordinator- she was pleasant and energetic and I felt like she was excited to speak with me. Once I came into the office for my consultation with Dr. Daniel, I was greeted by the nicest front desk staff. They immediately offered me water and/or a smoothie and just overall ensured I was comfortable. When I was called inside, I met Dr. Daniel’s assistant Stephanie, who I’ve felt like I have known for years. She was so kind and reassuring and my nerves instantly calmed. The team took several photos, X-rays, scans and EVEN had their hygienist come to evaluate the overall health of my gums and teeth. After the initial examinations, I met with Dr. Daniel and without me giving away too much, he understood what this process meant to me. We talked through my wants and concerns, and he answered every single question I asked. By the end of my first appointment, I knew that I was right where I needed to be and with who I was meant to be with. My second appointment was to view my “would be” smile- I was stunned and so impressed. My third appointment was to get my temporary veneers, while it was a long day- Dr. Daniel and team continued to check on me and ask if I was in pain, etc. When we finished with my temporary veneers and I was complete shock and disbelief at how I have just transformed. I was beyond pleased, and the response from my family and friends were overwhelming. Now with my final look, with such a quick turnaround from start to finish… my confidence has been restored, I genuinely feel happier and I do owe it all to the hard work, care and expertise of Dr. Daniel and his incredible team!

Local Guide · 15 reviews · 2 photos

The office is the place to come when you are committed to having your life changed. I previously had veneers for 3-4 years and I was never happy with them. They didn’t suit my face and the color was so dull. My first experience was the consult. In which I was was given a first class experience. A thorough exam by the periodontist Dr Geoffrey and his Hygiene team, X-rays, and a 3D scan. Sharon, a dental assistant guided me through every step which I found thoughtful. As my usual experience at a dental office. They rarely explain anything. They ordered me a smoothie upon arrival which I have never seen before. Then came time to have my smile design, which I completely fell in love with. The fact hat you can see your smile before you commit to it is amazing. Finally prep day! i was greeted by front desk Paige and she made me feel so comfortable. I was nervous. She then ordered me a smoothie and escorted me to Stephanie, Dr. Daniels assistant. Stephanie made me feel at home. I was given a blanket and we talked and laughed. She told me how excited she was to see my new smile. Dr. Daniel has the hands of an angel when he gives you the anesthesia. Fast forward to today, I got to see the veneers before cementing them and tried them on. Once cemented Dr. Marina checked my bite and let me tell you she is a BITE EXPERT! My bite has never felt great! I’m so thankful I choose this team and I’m part of the friends and family as they say! I love you Bensonhurt dental team!!

6 reviews

Some background: I am in my mid twenties and dealing with a crooked, crowded smile. My past experiences with straightening my smile resulted in crazy billing, miscommunications, and being sent to a million different offices. After some dedicated research I found the “one stop shop” I was looking for at Benson Hurst Dental. I began with a few phone call consultations with the friendly Shana that briefed my needs, wants, and overall goals. They made it clear from the beginning they will work urgently but it does come with a pretty large price tag. Nonetheless, my first visit involved a complete exam with each in-house professional, who preformed detailed xrays and took many photos for documentation. The first in office experience ended with Aurora going above and beyond to ensure my future appointments were set up on days that didn’t interfere with work, and created a payment plan that also fit my needs. Elisa preformed my cleaning the following appointment with my comfort as the first priority and the details of my teeth as a very close second. She went above and beyond to bring my teeth back to life and prepare me to maintain them accordingly. So far the process has been seamless and painless, and an overall pleasure working with the team. Thank you Benson Hurst Dental!

As a practicing oral and maxillofacial surgeon, I am no stranger to routine dental care. I am not the most easily impressed type and even I will tell you that the comprehensive dental team at Bensonhurst Dental Care deserves top rating. The team is led by Dr Alex Rubinstein, Dr Marina Rubinstein and Dr Daniel Rubinstein. The organization is brilliantly complemented by the office manager, Vera and the hygienist, Valerie; not to mention the friendly and enthusiastic front desk and assistant staff. In the age of insurance and volume dentistry, Bensonhurst Dental Care group manages to return to basics and slow things down for the patient. Treatment is done by the book; just as it was thought in dental school. Records are collected with appropriate radiographs and CLINICAL PHOTOS! Oral cancer screen is performed on the first visit as part of the initial examination. Valerie, who performs hygiene, is incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and has excellent hands (compliment which I will not dispense lightly) The team is clearly well versed in the latest technology which spans the use of the newest dental restorative materials, endodontic treatment, imaging and data technology as well as judicious use of dental lasers. As a professional, I certainly admire a health care organization which will take the time to ensure patient's comfort and education while providing the cutting edge dental care. For a discriminating dental patient who is willing to invest his valuable time toward an excellent experience and improved dental health, I would strongly endorse Bensonhurst Dental Care.

4 reviews

4.8 stars

4.8 stars

531 reviews on Google

531 reviews on Google

We Look Forward to Seeing You Soon!

We Look Forward to Seeing You Soon!

Schedule a consultation at Bensonhurst Dental
to find out if a crown is the right solution for your tooth.

Schedule a consultation at Bensonhurst Dental to find out if a crown is the right solution for your tooth.

We Look Forward to Seeing You Soon!

Schedule a consultation at Bensonhurst Dental
to find out if a crown is the right solution for your tooth.

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