Dental Exams and Check-Ups
in San Francisco
Anchor Dental (West Portal)

At Anchor Dental in West Portal, San Francisco, we provide routine dental exams and check-ups focused on prevention and early detection. Our comprehensive evaluations help identify small issues before they turn into complex or costly treatments keeping your teeth, gums, and bite healthy for life.

Preventive care designed to keep your smile healthy year-round

Each visit is designed around your comfort and convenience. We combine modern imaging, gentle technique, and personalized attention to make your exam thorough, informative, and stress-free.

Why regular dental exams matter

Even with consistent brushing and flossing, plaque, tartar, and early gum irritation can develop in areas you can’t easily see.
Routine exams allow your dentist to:

• Detect early decay before it causes pain
• Monitor gum health and prevent periodontal disease
• Identify bite or alignment changes
• Check for cracks or worn fillings
• Screen for oral cancer and tissue abnormalities

Skipping check-ups for even a year can allow subtle changes to progress into problems that require fillings, root canals, or crowns later on.

What happens during a dental exam at Anchor Dental

Our check-ups are comprehensive but comfortable — typically completed in under an hour.

1. Review and conversation

We begin by discussing your dental history, daily habits, and any new symptoms or sensitivities you’ve noticed.

2. Digital X-rays (if needed)

Modern digital imaging provides high-definition detail with minimal radiation. These images help detect small cavities, bone changes, or infections invisible to the naked eye.

3. Professional cleaning

If you’re due for a cleaning, our hygienist removes plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas and polishes your teeth for a smooth, refreshed feel.

4. Comprehensive oral exam

Dr. Esra Salihoglu Yener, DDS, PhD evaluates:

• Tooth surfaces and fillings for signs of decay or cracks
• Gum pockets and tissue health
• Jaw joint and bite alignment
• Tongue, cheeks, and soft tissue for any irregularities

5. Personalized discussion and plan

We review your results clearly — no rushed explanations. If any concerns arise, you’ll know your options, timelines, and expected outcomes right away.

Frequency of dental check-ups

Most patients benefit from exams every six months, which aligns with ADA recommendations. If you have a history of gum disease, wear braces, or grind your teeth, we may suggest visits every three to four monthsto maintain stability and prevent relapse. Regular monitoring keeps your oral health predictable, fewer surprises, fewer emergencies.

Oral health and your overall wellness

Research consistently links gum disease to broader health concerns, including diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and inflammatory disorders. Routine exams aren’t just about your teeth, they’re a window into your general health. At Anchor Dental, we look for early warning signs that can protect more than just your smile.

Why digital technology makes a difference

We use advanced tools to make every exam more precise and comfortable:

• Digital X-rays – crystal-clear images with up to 90% less radiation
• Intraoral cameras – magnified photos to show you what we see in real time
• Paperless charting and monitoring – tracking small changes between visits for consistency

This modern workflow allows us to catch and treat issues long before they cause symptoms.

What we check during your visit

Every detail matters — a complete exam protects both your function and appearance.

For new patients

Your first visit includes a comprehensive baseline exam and full-mouth imaging so we can tailor future care precisely to your needs. We’ll also discuss your dental goals — from preventive health to cosmetic improvements — and create a plan that fits your timeline and budget. Most new patients say the visit feels “informative, not rushed,” because we take time to explain what we see.

Common questions

How long does a dental exam take?
Typically 45–60 minutes, including cleaning if scheduled.

Will I always need X-rays?
Not always. We take them only as needed based on your history and previous imaging.

Does a check-up hurt?
No. Exams are completely comfortable; even cleanings are gentle and customized for sensitivity.

Can I schedule a cleaning and exam together?
Yes, most patients do both in one visit for convenience.

What if I haven’t seen a dentist in years?
That’s fine — we’ll start with a full evaluation and create a simple plan to get your oral health back on track. No judgment, just care.

Why San Francisco patients choose Anchor Dental

• Detailed, unhurried exams that cover more than just cavities
• Comfort-first philosophy with gentle techniques
• State-of-the-art imaging for early, accurate detection
• Personalized care plans focused on long-term prevention
• Trusted locally in West Portal, Inner Sunset, Noe Valley, and Daly City

Dr. Esra Salihoglu Yener, DDS, PhD leads every exam with a preventive mindset — protecting your natural teeth before problems ever start.

Local connection – check-ups that fit San Francisco lifestyles

Busy Bay Area schedules can make dental visits easy to postpone. Many patients stop by during lunch breaks or between commutes for quick, efficient exams. Our convenient West Portal location and flexible hours make it simple to stay on track; no disruption to your day, just peace of mind knowing your oral health is in check.

Schedule your dental exam & check-up in San Francisco

Healthy smiles start with routine care. If it’s been more than six months since your last exam, now’s the perfect time to schedule one with our team.