Dental cleanings & exams in Los Angeles, CA
At Leith K Shawaf DDS in Los Angeles, CA, dental cleanings & exams help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other issues before they become painful or costly. These preventive visits combine a thorough evaluation with professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing leave behind. Patients in Los Angeles, California can expect clear guidance, early detection, and personalized home care tips to keep teeth and gums healthy between visits.
Dental cleanings and exams explained
A routine visit typically includes two parts: a comprehensive exam and a professional cleaning, also called a dental prophylaxis. The exam checks teeth, gums, bite, jaw joints, and soft tissues. When appropriate, dental X-rays provide a closer look for cavities between teeth, bone health, and infections that are not visible. The cleaning removes hardened tartar and soft plaque that cause inflammation.
These appointments are designed to prevent disease rather than react to it. Early findings during an oral cancer screening, cavity check, or gum evaluation can save time and protect overall health. Recommendations may include fluoride treatment, sealants for children, or guidance on brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your mouth.
How preventive visits help your smile
- Professional removal of plaque and tartar reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Early detection during exams can limit the need for complex treatment later.
- Personalized home care coaching supports better daily brushing and flossing.
- Fluoride treatment and sealants can strengthen enamel and protect vulnerable areas.
- Monitoring restorations helps catch wear, cracks, or leaks before they worsen.
The preventive care process
Most patients benefit from visits every six months, though some need a different schedule based on risk. Here is what a typical appointment includes.
- Health review and goals: The visit begins with a brief medical and dental update, including medications and concerns.
- Periodontal evaluation: Gum measurements check for inflammation and early gum disease.
- Scaling: Plaque and tartar are gently removed from above and below the gumline.
- Polish and floss: Teeth are polished to smooth surfaces and flossed to remove debris.
- Exam and screening: Teeth, bite, jaw joints, and soft tissues are examined, including an oral cancer screening.
- X-rays as needed: Images are taken only when clinically appropriate to assess areas that cannot be seen.
- Fluoride or sealants: Protective options may be recommended for enamel strength and cavity prevention.
- Home care plan: Tips address technique, tools, and frequency, including whether a water flosser or interdental brush may help.
Your visit experience
Simple preparation helps the appointment go smoothly. Bringing a current medication list and sharing any new health diagnoses or concerns supports safer care. Patients who experience sensitivity can ask about desensitizing options, gentler tips, or breaks during cleaning. Mild tenderness after a thorough cleaning is common and usually fades within a day.
After the visit, continue twice-daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and daily interdental cleaning. Avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks for a few hours if you receive fluoride. Your next recall interval will be set based on cavity risk, gum health, and home care routine. If gum pockets or tartar below the gums are present, the team may discuss deep cleaning vs regular cleaning to address periodontal needs.