Dental Cleaning
Sugarfree Dental
Dentist located in Los Angeles County, Los Angeles, CA
At Sugarfree Dental, located in the Koreatown/East Hollywood section of Los Angeles, California, teeth cleanings and checkups are among the most essential procedures Dr. Daniel Kyu Yang, DDS performs. These twice yearly appointments are crucial to preventing gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay, as well as, detecting potential issues before they become major problems. Dr. Yang provides thorough dental exams and cleanings with a gentle touch, guaranteed to put even the most dental phobic patient at ease.
Dental Cleaning Q & A
What does a dental checkup and cleaning entail?
Dental checkups begin with a review of any patient symptoms and concerns, followed by a visual exam of the teeth and gums. Next, the teeth are carefully cleaned, paying special attention to the spaces between teeth and along the gumline where brushing and flossing often miss. Special tools and mild abrasives are used to remove plaque, tartar, and superficial stains. Afterward, your teeth are gently buffed and polished. Once the cleaning is complete, dental X-rays may be taken, and dental sealants or fluoride treatments may be offered. Next, the dentist will carefully examine each tooth, looking for signs of decay and gum disease.
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States, and in its early stages, the symptoms can go unnoticed by patients. Gum disease occurs when bacteria build up along the gum line, releasing toxins that cause the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth surface. This creates pockets that allow more bacteria to attach to the tooth and progress farther down the tooth surface, causing the gums to recede. By this point, patients may experience issues like swollen, red, or tender gums, bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, and even loose teeth. Without treatment, affected teeth will eventually fall out. Having routine checkups is the best way to diagnose and treat gum disease in its earliest ages so more serious problems can be prevented.
How often should I have a routine checkup and cleaning?
Adults and children should have routine checkups and cleanings every six months to look for early signs of gum disease and other problems that benefit from early intervention.
Will I have to have dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays usually are taken every year to provide important in-depth information about the health of the teeth under the gums, areas that can be evaluated with a visual exam. Having dental X-rays on a regular basis helps the dentist identify problems as early as possible so preventive care can be provided. Today’s X-rays use digital technology to limit the amount of radiation used while providing images with higher detail than traditional X-rays.