When you come in for a cleaning, your dental hygienist identifies and removes plaque—a soft film that can be removed by brushing—and tartar—a hardened plaque that requires dental instruments for removal. We make every effort to clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the tiny spaces between your teeth and along gum lines where bacteria gather.

We often complete the cleaning with prophy paste. Its coarse quality removes any remaining plaque as it dissolves into a finer texture, leaving the teeth shiny and smooth. We inform you of any areas where plaque and tartar build up, so you can give those places extra attention by flossing and brushing each day. Our goal is to enable you to easily and effectively care for your teeth.

What to Expect at Your First Checkup?

Our dental cleaning appointments are about an hour long, and new patient visits typically last a bit longer. We take pride in getting to know each of our patients, tailoring treatments to the health needs and goals of every individual. Here’s what to expect the first time you come to our office:

• Dental History—A hygienist will gather dental and medical histories so that we have a clear picture of your current health, including any medical conditions that can impact dental treatment.

• Digital X-rays—We take digital X-rays as part of a comprehensive oral exam. If you have had X-rays taken within the last 12 months, please have them sent to our office. If you cannot have X-rays taken, please inform the hygienist as you give your medical history.

• Oral Screening and Teeth Exams—After we perform an oral cancer/lesion screening for symptoms of cancer and other illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, we examine your teeth for decay.

• Gum Evaluation and Teeth Cleanings—Our hygienist will evaluate your gums, measuring periodontal pockets with a probe, and clean your teeth by identifying and removing areas of tartar, plaque, and calculus.

• Oral Hygiene Habits—We end your visit by reviewing and reinforcing proper oral hygiene.

The different kinds of Los Angeles teeth cleanings

Prophylaxis — a fancy word for teeth cleaning — is the only dental procedure of its kind. Prophylaxis involves a routine teeth cleaning every six months. The procedures that are sometimes called “cleanings” are actually periodontal treatments:

The procedures that are sometimes called “cleanings” are actually periodontal treatments:

• Full Mouth Debridement—pre-cleaning for those with severe calculus build-up
• Scaling and Root Planing—a deep cleaning for those with early stages of gum disease.
• Perio Maintenance—a periodontal cleaning for those with a history of gum disease.