What examinations can be performed in the Department of Stomatology?

Sep 07, 2026 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
The Department of Stomatology offers a variety of diagnostic examinations, including specialized oral visual and tactile examinations, dental X-rays, oral CT scans, periodontal assessments, and oral mucosal biopsies. These tests collectively enable comprehensive evaluation of the actual condition of oral tissues from multiple perspectives. If you experience recurrent oral pain, unexplained oral masses, or other similar symptoms, prompt medical consultation and treatment are strongly recommended.

  The Department of Stomatology offers a variety of diagnostic examinations, including specialized oral visual and tactile examinations, dental radiography (X-ray), dental computed tomography (CT), periodontal-specific assessments, and oral mucosal biopsy. These tests collectively evaluate the actual condition of oral tissues from multiple perspectives. If you experience recurrent oral pain, unexplained oral masses, or similar symptoms, prompt medical consultation and treatment are strongly recommended.

  1. Specialized Oral Visual and Tactile Examination: The clinician visually inspects the appearance of teeth, gums, lips, and tongue, and uses a dental probe to gently explore tooth surfaces and periodontal spaces to detect abnormalities such as carious lesions, dental calculus, or mucosal ulcerations. This preliminary assessment helps identify the location and approximate extent of lesions, providing foundational information for subsequent diagnostic procedures.

  2. Dental Radiography (X-ray): Utilizing ionizing radiation imaging, this technique reveals internal structures—including tooth roots and alveolar bone—enabling detection of hidden pathologies beneath the tooth crown. It can identify periapical inflammation, impacted teeth, and alveolar bone resorption. With rapid image acquisition, it is commonly employed for routine dental disease screening and aids in formulating initial treatment plans.

  3. Dental CT Imaging: Generates three-dimensional (3D) volumetric images of the oral and maxillofacial region, clearly depicting spatial relationships among bones and teeth. It enables precise visualization of subtle lesions in anatomically complex areas. This modality is frequently used for preoperative evaluation prior to third molar extraction or dental implant placement, and for investigating suspected jawbone pathology. Compared with conventional X-rays, dental CT provides significantly greater anatomic detail and is particularly suited for complex oral and maxillofacial diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

  4. Periodontal-Specific Examination: Employs a periodontal probe to measure probing depth of periodontal pockets, record gingival attachment levels, and assess tooth mobility—thereby evaluating the degree of alveolar bone destruction. This examination allows clinicians to differentiate severity levels of periodontal inflammation and determine the extent of damage to gingival and alveolar tissues, guiding appropriate periodontal interventions.

  5. Oral Mucosal Biopsy: Involves the collection of a small tissue sample from abnormal mucosal areas for histopathological analysis, enabling accurate differentiation between benign inflammatory changes and pathological proliferative or dysplastic processes. It is primarily indicated for persistent non-healing ulcers or unexplained mucosal plaques. The resulting histopathological diagnosis clarifies the nature of the lesion and serves as a reliable basis for subsequent management decisions.

  Maintain consistent daily oral hygiene practices—including regular toothbrushing—and limit intake of high-sugar foods. Undergo routine oral screenings as recommended. Should any oral discomfort arise, seek timely evaluation without delay; early detection of underlying oral pathology through appropriate diagnostic testing remains essential for optimal outcomes.