Family Dentistry
Dental Exams and Cleanings in San Ramon
We’ve all been told from a young age about the importance of brushing and flossing our teeth twice a day. However, this is just one part of maintaining healthy teeth. Preventative dental care also involves regular oral exams and professional cleanings, along with making good lifestyle choices like proper nutrition and consistent hygiene habits.
Dental cleanings and exams allow dentists to detect and address problems promptly. While dental visits are typically recommended twice a year, the American Dental Association suggests that the frequency should be tailored to the individual’s current oral health status, medical history, and specific needs.
Personalized oral care is essential for maintaining good dental health. Family members who are at high risk for dental issues may benefit from more frequent visits, whereas those at low risk may achieve the same benefits with fewer trips to the dentist. Dr. Malla will assess any potential risk factors and recommend the appropriate number of follow-up appointments to ensure optimal oral health.
A routine dental cleaning is a crucial part of preventative dentistry and offers an opportunity to identify areas that may need extra care when brushing or flossing. These appointments typically include a comprehensive checkup with our dentist, who will examine the teeth, screen for oral cancer, and take any necessary X-rays.
During a basic dental cleaning, a physical exam of the entire mouth is conducted using a small mirror to inspect the teeth and gums for signs of inflammation or other issues. Our staff will then use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from around the gum line and between the teeth. This is followed by a thorough cleaning with a high-powered electric brush and flossing. The patient’s mouth will be flushed with water as needed throughout the process.
For more extensive needs, deep cleanings involve specialized techniques to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line and down to the tooth roots. This type of cleaning is essential for preventing the progression of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Depending on the severity of the infection, antibiotics may be prescribed in oral form or as a gel or rinse to help combat bacteria. Since this cleaning goes beneath the gum line, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area for the patient’s comfort.
In addition to routine checkups and cleanings, a dentist may recommend additional services to enhance a family’s preventative dental care, such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants. These treatments provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay.
Topical fluoride treatments help strengthen teeth, making them more resistant to decay. Dentists often recommend these treatments for children under 18, but they may also suggest a special fluoride gel for daily use at home for individuals who are prone to cavities or tooth decay.
Dental sealants are another preventative measure, consisting of thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. Sealants protect the teeth from food particles and bacteria that can cause cavities. The process involves thoroughly cleaning the teeth, applying the sealant, and then hardening it using a laser or ultraviolet light to securely bond it to the teeth. This quick procedure typically takes less than an hour and provides long-lasting protection.