Dental Cleanings

Dental Cleanings

Although you may view your dental appointments as being separate from a physical examination, both are closely related. When your teeth are healthy, so too is the rest of your body, which is why it’s so essential that you receive a dental cleaning and examination every six months.

Along with the cosmetic and orthodontic services that Dr. Kohani provides, he also performs comprehensive cleanings that provide a close look at the state of your dentition. After a cleaning, Dr. Kohani will check your teeth to ensure there are no underlying issues.

Why Are Dental Cleanings So Important?

You may practice good oral hygiene at home by brushing and flossing every day, but even so, only your dentist can clean hard-to-reach areas where plaque and tartar build up. Dr. Kohani thoroughly cleans, flosses and polishes every single tooth during a scheduled dental cleaning while keeping an eye on any present concerns.

Without regular cleanings, you run the risk of allowing cavities and tooth decay to form, which could have an effect on the health of your teeth and body. Any decay from your teeth can easily spread below the gums and into the blood vessels of your teeth, leading to other areas of the body. Dental health is physical health, which is why cleanings are so important.

Not only do cleanings prevent cavities, but also you can keep your teeth from becoming loose or falling out due to decay and periodontal disease. A cleaner smile will keep your teeth white and your breath fresh. You will also save money in the long-run since a healthy smile won’t require expensive corrective treatments.

What Happens If You Need Additional Treatment?

A cleaning is an excellent way to learn about your oral health. As he cleans and examines your teeth, Dr. Kohani will take note of and explain any dental or orthodontic issues he comes across. Based on your treatment goals, Dr. Kohani can create a procedural plan that aims to correct any problems you are experiencing.

Your bi-annual appointment is also a time for you to discuss any cosmetic concerns you have about your smile. If no underlying conditions are present, Dr. Kohani can suggest cosmetic procedures that will enhance your smile.

Ultimately, the goal is to identify, diagnose and treat any oral health issues before they progress. Catching cavities, gum disease and tooth decay will keep you from experiencing discomfort and financial setbacks in the future.

Dental cleanings and examinations provide an educational experience and help you learn what to do outside of the Dr. Kohani’s office to enhance your smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your dentition, oral hygiene or health, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Kohani and schedule an appointment.

To get started on your treatment, contact La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics at 858-295-0603 and find a time that works for you. Dr. Kohani and his team look forward to helping you achieve your oral health goals.

858-295-0603

Dental Cleaning FAQS

For most people, a bi-annual appointment will ensure you stay on top of tooth issues and maintain excellent oral hygiene. Some people with pre-existing dental concerns will need to have their teeth cleaned more regularly. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate time to return during your cleaning appointment.

Typically, patients should receive dental check-up radiographs or bitewing x-rays once a year. These x-rays help the dentist spot issues below the surface level, inside the teeth and the gums. The x-rays allow the dentist to examine for periodontal disease, bone loss, infections, cavities, tooth growth and formation, and normal tooth eruption patterns.

Yes, as soon as your teeth cause discomfort or pain, schedule an appointment with the dentist. You may have a cavity, require a root canal, or have another issue that will only worsen with time.

No, your dental cleaning should not hurt. Some patients experience some sensitivity and pressure, depending on the condition of your teeth. Your dentist will always check with you if you are in pain and adjust if you show signs of discomfort.

Yes, the dentist does a lot more than just check your teeth. Patients who wear dentures may not have to worry about tooth decay, but other oral hygiene problems can still occur. Some examples include gum disease, mouth sores, and signs of oral cancer. Visit the dentist on an annual basis for a thorough examination.

Yes, our office offers professional whitening services as well as other cosmetic dentistry treatments. Our whitening treatments use a stronger solution compared to the whitening kits found at your local drugstore. This means the whitening results from the dentist will look brighter and last longer.

An average dental cleaning appointment lasts 45 minutes. The dentist will scrape off any plaque from your teeth and clean and polish the teeth to remove any biofilm and bacteria in and around the teeth. Some patients who are at a higher risk for tooth decay may receive a fluoride treatment as well. If there are suspicious signs of tooth issues, your dentist may require an x-ray. The whole appointment should be painless and go by quickly!

This will vary based on each individual’s policy. At a minimum, if you believe you have dental coverage, this likely includes dental cleanings. To verify, you can call your insurance provider. You can also ask the receptionist at the front desk to check your insurance coverage for you.