Dental Exam, X-ray and Cleaning

Regular dental exams play a crucial role in your oral health. Dental problems often start small, but they can quickly snowball out of control. When our Beverly Hills dentist is able to diagnose an oral health problem early and formulate a customized treatment plan during your regular dental exam, you’ll be able to keep your mouth healthier and your dental bills lower.

Dental Exam and X-ray

Regular dental exams generally begin with a medical history. This is the time in which you will share your own personal medical history, medication or other allergies, tobacco or alcohol use, and medications you use. It’s critical that you are accurate and thorough in your information. Our dentist needs this information in order to make the best decisions about any diagnoses and treatment plans that may be necessary.

Next our dentist will examine your teeth and gums. A thorough examination of every surface of your teeth will reveal any signs of decay, disease, or abnormalities that could harm your oral health, particularly since your oral health is so closely tied to your overall health.

Our dentist will also take a dental X-ray during your dental exam. A dental X-ray can show decay that couldn't necessarily be detected visually or decay that is developing underneath a filling. X-rays may also identify bone loss associated with gum disease or extensive infection. Our dentist may use a dental X-ray for other reasons as well, including as preparation for other dental procedures.

Dental Cleaning

Oral hygiene plays an important role in your day-to-day life, and it will play a starring role in your exam. During a dental cleaning, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned of all traces of plaque and tartar and polished, and you may receive a fluoride treatment if our dentist deems it necessary. Plaque and tartar buildup can irritate your gums and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. Although plaque can be cleaned away with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, some areas of your teeth may be difficult to reach, and even one day of missed flossing can lead to the start of tartar buildup. Your regular dental cleaning will prevent this tartar buildup from damaging your gums and your oral health.

The American Dental Association advises most people to visit the dentist every six months. During these biannual visits you should have a dental exam, dental X-ray, and dental cleaning. Our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist may advise a different schedule if you are at greater risk for developing gum disease or tooth decay due to your lifestyle or family history.