Routine oral exams are a well-known, must-have piece of dental care. In most cases, dental exams are scheduled twice per year, every six months. This allows your dentist to assess your teeth, gums, and oral cavity and to diagnose potential issues, such as gum disease, oral cancer, cavities, or problems with existing dental restorations. Catching problems early helps prevent more severe problems from developing in the future, saving you time and money.