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During your initial visit to our offices, you will receive a comprehensive dental exam, including a gum disease evaluation, evaluation of existing restorations, evaluation of decay on tooth surfaces, and an oral cancer screening.
At Zak Dental Care, we believe that whether you simply need a bi-yearly check-up or full periodontal therapy, our team of dentists, specialists and hygienists will always provide you with comprehensive treatment plans and impeccable quality of service.
If you live in Southern California, feel free to schedule a New Patient Visit with us in Zak Dental offices in Agoura Hills, Covina/San Dimas, Downey, Long Beach, North Park, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Simi Valley, Temecula, Valencia, Ventura, and Whittier/La Mirada, California.
Please Call us at 833-ZAK-TEAM with any additional questions you would like us to answer.
What is a hygiene cleaning?
A hygiene cleaning, also known as a dental cleaning or prophylaxis, is a professional dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. It’s an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
How often should I get a hygiene cleaning?
The frequency of hygiene cleanings depends on individual oral health needs. For most people, a cleaning every six months is recommended. However, individuals with certain oral health conditions may need cleanings more frequently, as advised by their dentist or dental hygienist.
Is a hygiene cleaning painful?
Hygiene cleanings are typically not painful. However, some individuals may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, especially if they have sensitive teeth or gum disease. Dental professionals use techniques to minimize discomfort, and if necessary, local anesthesia can be administered.
How long does a hygiene cleaning appointment take?
The duration of a hygiene cleaning appointment can vary depending on the individual’s oral health status and the extent of cleaning needed. On average, a hygiene cleaning appointment may take between 30 minutes to an hour.
What happens during a hygiene cleaning?
During a hygiene cleaning, the dental hygienist or dentist will first examine your teeth and gums. Then, they will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth, including hard-to-reach areas. After cleaning, the teeth are polished to remove surface stains and make them smooth. Finally, the dentist or hygienist may apply fluoride treatment for added protection against cavities.
Will my dental insurance cover hygiene cleanings?
Many dental insurance plans cover hygiene cleanings as part of preventive care. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific insurance plan. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.
What are the benefits of regular hygiene cleanings?
Regular hygiene cleanings offer several benefits, including:
Can hygiene cleanings help prevent gum disease?
Yes, hygiene cleanings play a crucial role in preventing gum disease by removing plaque and tartar, which are primary contributors to gum inflammation and infection. Additionally, regular cleanings allow dental professionals to assess gum health and provide necessary recommendations for maintaining healthy gums.
Remember to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist for personalized advice regarding your oral health needs and hygiene cleaning schedule.
What are the top five signs that indicate a dental emergency and require immediate dental care?
Did you know that there are five signs that may indicate that you’re having a dental emergency?
The first one is dental pain, which could mean inflammation in the pulp or nerve of your tooth.
The second sign is a dental abscess that can cause infections of the bloodstream and even be life-threatening.
The third sign is swelling in the mouth or face, which should be addressed immediately by going to the emergency room.
A cracked tooth is the fourth sign, and if it’s vertical, it can cause pain right away and lead to bacteria growth.
Finally, general trauma like a car accident or fall can cause tooth trauma, which may not be noticeable at first.
If you experience any head hits, check your mouth for concussion. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs or symptoms of a dental emergency, please give us a call at 833-ZAK-TEAM. Remember, the longer you wait, the more costly the treatment can be. But don’t worry, we have affordable treatment options available to you!
Zak Dental offices located in Agoura Hills, Covina/San Dimas, Downey, Long Beach, North Park, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Simi Valley, Temecula, Valencia, Ventura, and Whittier/La Mirada, California.
Why is it crucial for me to stay on top of my oral health and not put off taking care of it?
We had a patient who came in with severe toothaches due to nerve damage caused by a cavity that had been left untreated for two months. The infection had even spread to another tooth.
This situation could have been prevented if the patient had kept up with regular check-ups and preventative care.
We encourage everyone to invest in preventative care, as procrastination can lead to costly and extensive dental work.
Being proactive with your dental health is always the best decision for your oral well-being. So, if you have any dental issues, don’t hesitate to make a consultation with us.
Is it really important for my teeth and health to have regular dental exams or checkups?
It’s important to see a dentist at least once a year – more if you have a history of cavities, fillings, gum disease, tooth loss, TMJ, or bite problems. Even people who maintain excellent oral hygiene tend to accumulate calcified plaque deposits on their teeth, especially near the major salivary glands. It can only be removed by a dental professional with the use of special scaling instruments. If left on the teeth, it can lead to gum disease and other dental problems.
Gum disease has been linked to general health problems, including heart disease, stroke, poor circulation, type 2 diabetes, and complications with pregnancy.
Pits and fissures where plaque accumulates and is not easily removed must be evaluated for the development of cavities, and existing dental work such as fillings, crowns and bridges must be regularly inspected so that problems can be corrected early before they cause unnecessary complications.
It’s a good idea to look between the teeth with bitewing x-rays about once a year to check for decay and bone loss. The teeth should be examined for misalignment, chips, cracks, and wear spots, as abnormal wear and tear can lead to tooth loss and problems with the jaw joints and jaw muscles.
Finally, your dentist needs to be aware of any changes in your medical history and medication use to track their effects on your oral health. So see your dentist regularly for checkups at the intervals he or she recommends for your unique oral health situation.