Your guide to a dental check-up with exams and cleanings for a healthy, stunning smile
Many dental problems that later require treatment can easily be prevented with oral hygiene at home. Dr. Kahng and our hygiene team believe in personalized care and prioritize showing patients techniques to keep their smiles healthy and stunning. Part of keeping a smile healthy is maintaining consistent and regular exams at our dental studio.
The importance of professional care
Why do you still need to visit the dentist’s office even when you consistently and thoroughly brush and floss at home? There are at least two key reasons why even the best home hygiene is no substitute for professional services:
- First, the professional cleanings at our office that typically precede our dentists’ exams are done using specialized tools in the hands of highly qualified hygienists who are trained to use these tools safely and effectively. While sticky bacterial plaque can be removed at home with a brush and floss, its hardened form (tartar or calculus) cannot be removed with store-bought products. Our hygienists will gently and skillfully eliminate this plaque build-up, as well as bacteria in hard-to-clean spaces. Plus, our patients love how fresh and clean their mouth feels afterward! Another bonus: Professional hygiene appointments are an awesome way to lift surface stains and keep your smile looking great.
Typically after the cleaning, Dr. Kahng uses her keen eye and advanced diagnostic tools to detect “hidden” decay and other oral problems. Often, oral conditions such as periodontal (gum) disease do not present symptoms until after the disease has progressed. At that point, irreparable damage may already have been done, or time-consuming, traumatic, and costly treatment may be necessary to resolve the problem. Likewise, symptoms associated with early-stage disease are frequently so subtle that patients are not motivated to visit us. By the time they reach out to us about alarming pain or bleeding, it may be too late to “save” the tooth or to naturally restore healthy attachment between the gums and teeth in a conservative, non-invasive way.
Diagnostic tools such as digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, or Near Infrared Imaging Technology (NIRI) are a great complement to our doctors’ considerable skill and experience. These tools help detect even subtle, early-stage enamel erosion and gum inflammation, and even abnormalities that may indicate pre-cancers and cancers. These technologies are not only comfortable for the patient, but they also produce very clear images that can be presented on a monitor. In this way, our dentists can show you precisely what “they see”, which aids in understanding the underlying condition and informs your understanding of recommended treatment approaches.
During these appointments, we can also recommend products such as interdental brushes that help to easily clean back teeth. Additionally, we check that dental work and appliances such as nightguards and mouthguards remain in excellent condition. We may even recommend preventive services, such as nightguards, to protect both dental restorations and natural teeth from the effects of chronic teeth-grinding. Other preventive services include dental sealants and fluoride supplementation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exams & Cleanings
Can my dentist know if I don’t floss my teeth?
We are sorry to break it to you, but yes. We can tell if you don’t include flossing as part of your oral hygiene, and it’s not that difficult. We’ll notice tartar (yellow deposits) in areas between your teeth. These deposits develop when plaque is left on the teeth long enough to harden and calcify.
Your gums may also give you away. Patients who brush and floss routinely have healthy, pink gums. However, when you skip flossing, your gums may look inflamed, swollen, and tender. The good news? You can restore your healthy smile with a dental cleaning, followed by diligent brushing and flossing at home. It’s never too late to restore your healthy smile.
Are dental cleanings painful?
Standard dental cleanings are not painful. You might experience slight pressure or mild discomfort, particularly if it has been some time since your last cleaning. If your gums are inflamed, there may be slight discomfort. Let your dental hygienist know if you feel uneasy. They can adjust the techniques to make your experience more comfortable.
How often should I have a dental check-up?
The standard is six months. However, it’s important to understand that every patient is different. If you are at a high risk of oral health issues, such as gum disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent check-ups, typically every 3-4 months.
What happens if I skip routine cleanings?
Plaque can harden into tartar over time. This unhealthy buildup cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar buildup increases your risk of cavities and gum disease. You may also notice a change in your breath. Skipping visits causes minor problems to turn into bigger, more costly issues.
What if I haven’t been to the dentist in a while?
We won’t judge. We always encounter patients with varying oral health backgrounds, including some who haven’t been to a dentist in many years. The important thing is to schedule an appointment, and we’ll help you get your healthy smile back.
What is the difference between standard and deep cleanings?
A standard cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gumline. It is part of routine preventive care and is recommended every six months. A deep cleaning goes below the gumline. It’s recommended for patients who have been clinically diagnosed with gum disease. It’s more extensive and is often administered under anesthesia. Everyone needs standard dental cleanings, but deep teeth cleanings are only for patients with periodontal disease.
How much is a dental check-up in Costa Mesa, CA?
The cost of your dental appointment depends on the services you receive. Typically, your dental check-up includes an exam, cleaning, an oral cancer exam, and possibly X-rays. We’ll share a cost breakdown before anything begins, ensuring you proceed with clarity and confidence.
Does insurance cover dental check-ups?
Yes. Many dental insurance plans cover preventive services, including check-ups and cleanings. Take advantage of your preventive benefits today and prevent the need for restorative treatment later in life.
Where can I schedule my dental appointment in Costa Mesa, CA?
Are you due or overdue for a dental check-up in Costa Mesa, CA? It’s never too late to achieve your healthy smile. Dial (949) 867-4346 and schedule an appointment with Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio. Your journey to your healthy smile starts here!
