January 2023 - Best Norwalk CA Dentist | Dental Health Group

As we eat and drink throughout the day, a film of bacteria builds up on our teeth. Plaque causes tartar formation, which combines with bacteria to form a hard substance that adheres to your teeth. This buildup can cause gingivitis, periodontitis, and eventually tooth loss. Of course, that’s why you brush your teeth every day, but sometimes regular brushing is not enough.

Dental deep cleaning is a procedure to dig in and scrub off the buildup that a toothbrush can’t reach.

What is deep teeth cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning is a type of dental cleaning also called scaling and planing that removes tartar, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth. The procedure involves specialized tools and is a much more thorough process than a regular teeth cleaning. It’s the difference between a full, multipoint auto inspection and a 15-minute oil change: Deep cleaning really looks at everything for a comprehensive treatment.

The dentist will use a tool called an ultrasonic scaler to remove tartar from your teeth and may also use other tools to polish away any rough patches that remain, making them look whiter and cleaner. This process of removing tartar is called scaling.

The next step of the dental deep cleaning procedure is called planing. The dentist will smooth out the tooth root by removing any buildup. It’s easier for the gums to attach to a clean, exposed tooth root, so this process strengthens your gum line and decreases the risk of tooth loss. Because it combines these processes, deep cleaning is often called scaling and root planing.

Do I really need deep cleaning, or is a regular checkup enough?

Your dentist will be able to tell if you need a deep cleaning by looking at your teeth. At the Dental Health Group, we find that many of our Los Angeles area patients who have trouble brushing regularly or who have not been to the dentist in over a year are good candidates for deep cleaning.

Your dentist will check for any discoloration or dark spots on the surface of your teeth, which can indicate plaque build-up below the gums due to oral hygiene. If this is present, they will recommend that you have the dental deep cleaning procedure as soon as possible. Your dentist will also check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or bone loss.

If you have any tooth sensitivity or pain when eating, this could be a sign of gum disease. If your gums are red or swollen, it could also mean that they are infected and in need of treatment. If there are any problems, your dentist may recommend additional treatment before deep cleaning your teeth so that they are in the best possible condition afterward.

What are the benefits of deep teeth cleaning?

Having your teeth deep cleaned regularly can help to keep them healthy and free from plaque build-up. It can also prevent gum disease by removing tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, which helps to stop bacteria from growing there. If you have sensitive teeth or are prone to cavities, a dental deep cleaning procedure may be able to reduce these symptoms, too. Other benefits of teeth deep cleaning include:

Reduced tooth sensitivity
Improved overall oral health
Fresh breath
A whiter smile
Healthier gums

Does deep cleaning my teeth hurt?

Because the dentist will numb the area, dental deep cleaning is a relatively painless procedure. If you have sensitive teeth, it may feel slightly uncomfortable when your dentist uses an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque from your teeth. This device uses high-frequency vibrations to break down hard deposits such as tartar.

At the Dental Health Group, we use the latest technology for safe, efficient treatment. Ask Dr. Abad about numbing options before the procedure begins, and we will make every effort to ensure your comfort.

Remember, the long-term effects of not caring for your teeth often hurt far more than an occasional cleaning.

How long does it take?

The procedure is quick. Depending on how many teeth are treated during the session, teeth deep cleaning can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, usually taking just a few minutes per tooth. If you’re receiving scaling and planing for the first time, it may take longer.

Your dentist will also need to take digital X-rays of your teeth before treatment begins so they can see if any additional work needs to be done before scaling and polishing. Dentists may spend more time on patients who have particularly damaged teeth and gums. Your dentist will advise you on how long each stage of the treatment will take. They’ll also be able to give you an idea of any possible side effects and how long they might last.

What happens during the procedure?

Your dentist will start by preparing your teeth for the procedure by cleaning your teeth using soft bristles and a fluoride-containing solution. They may numb your gums before they perform any treatment. They’ll then use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. This is done with a special handpiece that vibrates at high speed. Next, they’ll polish each tooth using a fine-grit disc that contains fluoride and polishing agents. The whole process is relatively painless, but you may experience some mild discomfort. If there are any visible holes in your teeth (known as caries), then they’ll fill these before polishing them with a fine abrasive paste.

How much does it cost?

The cost of a dental deep cleaning procedure can vary depending on the severity of your case. Most insurance plans will cover some or all of the costs associated with this treatment. In general, though, it’s less expensive than other types of dental care such as fillings or crowns.

What happens afterward?

You should try not to eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after your appointment. You might experience some discomfort or pain after your deep teeth cleaning. This is normal, but it should only last a short time. If you have any concerns about this, speak to your dentist before leaving the practice. After your deep teeth cleaning, your gums may be red and swollen for a few hours. They shouldn’t hurt, though, and usually return to normal within 24 hours. If you experience any pain or swelling after the procedure, contact your dentist immediately. After your teeth cleaning, your dentist will probably recommend rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash and using an antibacterial toothpaste for one week. If you have sensitive teeth, your dentist may advise you to use a special toothpaste for several days after the cleaning. This will help soothe any discomfort and reduce the risk of bleeding. You may also be advised to avoid eating certain foods for a few days after your appointment.

Get your smile back!

Deep teeth cleaning is more than just routine teeth cleaning. It is necessary to maintain your oral health. If you’re not sure whether you are a candidate for a deep dental cleaning procedure, reach out to our Canoga Park team to schedule a consultation. At the Dental Health Group, we are passionate about providing you with the best dental care possible to help you maintain good oral health and keep your teeth looking their best. We take pride in our individualized approach to patient care.

We’re ready when you are, so call our Canoga Park office at 818-718-2000 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment with us.

When you’re looking for a new dentist, it can feel like searching for the right pair of shoes. There are so many options, and they all fit a bit differently. Some dentists specialize in cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics, while others only do periodontal care such as implants and dentures. Some offer emergency appointments, while others have extended evening hours. What’s the most important consideration?

Start your search by asking your friends, family, and coworkers about their dentists, and pay attention to their answers. What do they like (or not like) about their experiences? If you’re still not sure about what questions to ask, check out review sites like Yelp or Google for finding a good dentist.

Nothing can answer your questions as well as an initial consultation or appointment. At our Canoga Park office, we gladly meet with new patients to answer questions before beginning treatment. No matter where you live, finding a good dentist is all about asking your dentist the right questions! Start with these.

1. Are you accepting new patients?

Some offices are going to tell you that they’re “full” or put you on a waiting list for six months. While not always the case, this can be a cause for concern.

If a dentist is taking new patients, it’s a good sign that they are running their practice efficiently. Practices that cannot schedule your appointment in a timely manner are likely understaffed or relying on an outdated appointment booking system. One sign of a good dentist is that they will find openings for you, perhaps even calling you as soon as an appointment slot becomes available. To minimize waiting, some offices even provide an online messaging service to set up an appointment at a convenient time for you.

2. Do you have any special certifications?

The American Dental Association (ADA) certifies two types of dentists: general dentists and specialists. For a regular checkup and exam, this distinction is unlikely to matter much. Any dentist in general practice should feel comfortable with routine procedures.

You are more likely to notice a difference with elective or cosmetic procedures. Transforming stained or crooked teeth is both a science and an art form. One way to find a good dentist for cosmetic treatments is to ask about his or her accreditation, certifications, training, expertise, and interests.

3. What payment plans do you accept?

Most dentists will tell you that they accept insurance, but it’s worth digging a little deeper. Find out about the cost of a visit, what services are included, and what you will need to pay for separately. Ask your dentist if there is a fee for consultation and whether you can schedule an appointment without insurance.

If you have a dental insurance plan, ask if the dentist participates in it — not every dentist participates in every plan! A good dental practice will accept most major insurance plans and have financing options, including payment plans or credit cards that offer dental benefits.

4. Who is on your staff?

Everyone wants a beautiful smile that they can be proud of, and finding a good dentist includes finding out what specialists are on staff to help you achieve that. Some dentists are the only doctor at their practice, while others have multiple doctors or even an orthodontist in house who can consult with you about Invisalign, retainers, or other methods of straightening your teeth.

Once again, it depends on the extent of dental services you require. If you need some restorative work in addition to regular cleanings, a practice with more than one dentist is more likely to schedule you quickly and have the relevant in-house expertise.

5. How do you help patients manage pain?

Many people are afraid of the dentist because they’re afraid of pain. A good question to ask your dentist is what kind of approach he or she takes to deal with pain. It’s important to find a good dentist who will have a method for managing discomfort and will be able to explain how they will manage your pain during a procedure. If you are particularly nervous about dental procedures, ask if they use local anesthesia, which numbs the area being worked on; oral conscious sedation, such as nitrous oxide; or general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep.

A good dentist will hear your concerns about pain. Be wary of a dentist who dismisses your question by saying a procedure “doesn’t hurt.” You should always feel respected.

6. How often do you update your equipment?

Dental equipment is not cheap, and some offices will prioritize cost savings over upgrades. Yet finding a good dentist who utilizes the latest technology can make your visit more comfortable.

Some dental offices have high-speed handpieces that can make drilling less painful. Other offices may use lasers that don’t require anesthesia to remove plaque or treat gum disease. X-rays have now gone digital, providing a safer experience than traditional X-rays. And digital imaging software allows dentists to identify early-stage dental concerns.

The materials used to make fillings and crowns are also constantly improving, and you want to find a good dentist who is up-to-date on these advances. Ask your dentist what materials he or she uses for fillings and crowns because this may affect how long the filling lasts or how well it fits with your other teeth. If you’re looking to find a good dentist in Canoga Park who uses the latest technology, we are happy to meet you at the Dental Health Group.

7. What if I need an emergency appointment?

You want to find a good dentist that will make themselves available in case of an emergency. If you have a dental emergency such as a broken tooth or severe pain that won’t go away, you will need to get in sooner than six months from now.

The Dental Health Group

When it comes to finding a good dentist, the most important thing is that you’re comfortable with them and confident in their abilities. If you do your research and come prepared to ask your dentist questions at your appointment, finding a good dentist can be a straightforward experience.

The Dental Health Group in Canoga Park makes every effort to ensure your visit to the dentist is as comfortable and relaxing as possible. Patients travel from all across the Valley to reach our office. Call 818-718-2000 to schedule your appointment. We can’t wait to meet you!

Month: January 2023

What is a Deep Cleaning? Everything You Need to Know about Polishing Your Teeth