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Learn what happens at a dental exam, how our digital X-rays and Overjet AI help catch problems early, and how we keep every visit honest. Have questions before your visit? Give us a call, and our friendly team will be happy to help.
Dental Exams
Catches problems early
Honest answers in plain language
Low-radiation digital X-rays
Overjet AI-assisted readings
Early 7 a.m. appointments
Paired with your cleaning
About the service

What is a dental exam?

A dental exam is a careful check of your teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work. At Bevan Dental, dental exams in Napa are done by Dr. Bevan himself, who takes the time to explain what he sees in plain language.

The goal is simple: find small problems while they are still small, and tell you honestly what needs attention and what can wait.

What we check during your exam

  • Signs of tooth decay, cracks, and worn areas
  • Gum health, including pocket measurements when needed
  • Fillings, crowns, and other existing dental work
  • Your bite and signs of grinding or clenching
  • The soft tissues of your mouth

Digital X-rays and CBCT imaging

Our digital X-rays use far less radiation than older film X-rays, and we only take them when they help us see something an exam can't. Depending on your needs, we may take bitewings, a full set, or a panoramic image.

For more detailed planning, such as dental implants, we use CBCT, a 3D scan that shows your teeth, bone, and nerves in detail.

Overjet AI: a second set of eyes

Overjet is software that reviews your X-rays and highlights areas that may show early decay or bone loss from gum disease. It helps Dr. Bevan spot problems early and show you exactly what he sees. Early decay can sometimes be treated with no-drill fillings instead of a drill.

An exam and cleaning, together

Most exams are paired with a dental cleaning, so you can take care of both in one visit. If Dr. Bevan finds something that needs treatment, he'll walk you through your options and only recommend what you actually need.

“I'd rather tell you the truth than talk you into something. If you're nervous, we slow down and keep things gentle. If something can wait, I'll tell you it can wait. After more than 25 years, I've learned that being honest and gentle is its own kind of warmth.”

Dr. Kenneth J. Bevan, founder and dentist

Dr. Kenneth J. Bevan

"I'd rather tell you the truth than talk you into something. If you're nervous, we slow down and keep things gentle. If something can wait, I'll tell you it can wait. After nearly three decades, I've learned that being honest and gentle is its own kind of warmth."

About Bevan Dental

Dental exams at Bevan Dental

Expert dental care, delivered with honesty and a gentle touch. Dr. Kenneth J. Bevan has practiced dentistry since 1999, and today he runs a calm, small-team practice on Villa Lane in Napa. We see patients one at a time, we work hard to run on schedule, and we take the time to explain your options in plain language.

Your exam is done by Dr. Bevan himself, not handed off. He looks at your teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work, then tells you honestly what needs attention now and what can safely wait. Patients tell us they appreciate how clearly he explains things.

  • 25+ years of experience. Dr. Bevan has cared for Napa smiles for over 25 years, and many of our team members have been with us for years, so you'll see familiar faces at every visit.
  • Trained by the best. Dr. Bevan's advanced training through Spear, Kois, Pankey, and gIDE shapes how carefully he looks at every mouth, including during a routine exam.
  • Modern technology. Digital X-rays, CBCT 3D imaging, Overjet AI, and iTero scanning help us see more with less. Better tools mean care that is more precise, more comfortable, and easier on you.
  • Honest, gentle care. We see patients one at a time and never rush. If something can wait, Dr. Bevan will tell you it can wait.

Meet the team

“We can always have a laugh, no matter how stressed we are.”

Johann, office manager

“My favorite part is the way we all come together to get everything accomplished, and how we treat our patients like family and friends.”

Shaila, registered dental hygienist

“I realized this was a special place to work when I saw patients come in happy to come to the dentist.”

Carolina, dental assistant

“What I love most about this team is seeing how they treat their patients as their neighbors, as their loved ones.”

Christina, registered dental assistant

“We all get along great. We're like a family, and we're all here to take care of the patients.”

Laura, registered dental assistant

Hear it from our patients

“I've been through a very nervous situation with my teeth, and they've been so kind-hearted, guiding me through each step of the way. It's smooth, it's fun, and I look forward to it.”

Leena S., patient

“The best dentist I've ever had. I'd recommend Bevan Dental to anybody who needs a new dentist, or anybody who's been given advice they're questioning from another dentist.”

Dana B., patient

Contact
Book your dental exam in Napa, CA
Call to book your exam, or ask us anything before your visit. We're at 3434 Villa Lane, Suite 100, in north Napa, with plenty of free parking. Early 7 a.m. appointments make it easy to come in before work, whether you're coming from downtown Napa or Browns Valley.
Dental Exams
Trusted by patients
for years
Dental exam FAQs
What happens at a dental exam?

Dr. Bevan checks your teeth, gums, bite, and existing work like fillings and crowns, and looks for early signs of decay or gum disease. We also check the soft tissues of your mouth. Then he walks you through what he sees, in plain language, and what can wait.

How often should I have a dental exam?

For most people, once or twice a year alongside a dental cleaning. If you have gum disease or a lot of dental work, we may suggest more frequent visits. We'll recommend a schedule that fits your mouth, not a one-size-fits-all rule.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. Our digital X-rays use far less radiation than older film X-rays, and we only take them when they help us see something an exam can't. For more detailed planning, such as implants, we use CBCT 3D imaging.

What is Overjet AI?

Overjet is software that reviews your digital X-rays and highlights areas that may show early decay or bone loss from gum disease. It gives Dr. Bevan a second set of eyes on every image. Catching problems early often means simpler treatment, like treating a cavity without drilling.

Do you see kids?

Yes, we see kids. Many families come to us together, and we keep visits relaxed and friendly for younger patients.

I haven't been to the dentist in years. Will I be judged?

Never. Plenty of our patients come back after a long break, and we're just glad you're here. We'll take a look, tell you honestly where things stand, and work at your pace.

Do you accept insurance for dental exams?

Yes. We accept all major PPO plans, and most of them cover routine exams. Our front desk team will help you understand your benefits before your visit.

How do I book a dental exam in Napa?

Call us at (707) 255-3007 or visit our contact page for more options. We're at 3434 Villa Lane, Suite 100, in north Napa, with plenty of free parking. We have early appointments from 7 a.m., Monday to Thursday, so you can come in before work.

Dental Exams
Honest, gentle care
 is one visit away