Teeth Cleaning and Dental Exams in La Jolla

Dental Exam and Cleaning in La Jolla

Dental exams are routine checkups performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to evaluate your oral health. They are crucial for preventing oral health issues and addressing any problems early.

A typical dental exam usually involves teeth cleaning.

Teeth cleaning is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. As a daily teeth cleaning routine at home, consider the following:

  1. Brush twice daily.
  2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.
  3. Use a mouthwash to reduce bacteria and strengthen enamel.

In addition to at-home cleaning, it is important to undergo professional teeth cleaning during your dental exam. Even with regular brushing and flossing, some food particles still remain trapped. Over a period of time, they build up to form tartar. Tartar can't be easily removed at home. That's why you should never miss your dental appointment every 6 months.

Professional teeth cleaning helps you in the following ways:

  • Scaling - Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Polishing - Your dentist will smoothen your teeth surfaces for a clean finish.

Here's what you can expect during a dental exam:

  1. Physical Examination
    • The dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, or other issues.
    • They may also check for alignment problems or wear on teeth due to grinding.
  2. X-Rays
    • X-rays help detect problems that aren't visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, infections in the jawbone, or impacted teeth.
    • Your dentist will recommend an X-ray if you have symptoms of a hidden infection.
  3. Assessment of Gums
    • The dentist checks for signs of gum disease by measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth.
    • Healthy gums fit snugly around the teeth without bleeding.
    • Early gum disease, known as gingivitis, may be hard to notice at home, but your dentist is trained to spot it early and prevent it from worsening.
  4. Teeth Cleaning
    • Walk out of your appointment with clean, polished teeth!

Your dental exam gives you the perfect opportunity to get information about your oral health. It is also the best place to get advice about your dental concerns regarding your oral care routine and the products you use.

It’s generally recommended to visit the dentist every 6 months. However, some people with specific oral health needs may require more frequent visits.

Do you need more information about teeth cleaning and exams? Give us a call 858-401-7761.