Family Dentistry

Teeth Cleaning and Checkups in Del Mar, CA

There are many ways you can play an active role in maintaining your oral health. Having your teeth cleaned in our office every six months is an excellent place to start. Our hygienists and dentists identify plaque and problem areas before thoroughly cleaning your teeth, providing you with information to sustain a happy, healthy smile.

At Del Mar View Dental Care, maintaining regular teeth cleanings and checkups is essential for several important reasons.

First, consistent cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone can’t eliminate. This not only keeps your teeth looking their best but also helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

Regular checkups also allow Dr. Charlton to detect potential issues early, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer, when they are most easily treated. Early detection often means simpler, less invasive treatments, which can save you time, discomfort, and money in the long run.

Additionally, these appointments provide an opportunity to discuss any changes in your oral health, receive personalized advice on maintaining good dental hygiene, and update any necessary dental work.

By committing to consistent teeth cleanings and checkups, you’re investing in the long-term health of your teeth and gums, ensuring a bright and healthy smile for years to come.

At Del Mar View Dental Care, our dental cleaning appointments typically last about an hour, with new patient visits taking a bit longer. We take pride in getting to know each of our patients, ensuring that treatments are tailored to meet your unique health needs and goals. Here’s what you can expect during your first visit to our office:

  1. Dental History: One of our hygienists will begin by gathering your dental and medical histories to get a comprehensive understanding of your current health. This helps us identify any medical conditions that could impact your dental treatment.
  2. Digital X-rays: We take digital x-rays as part of your comprehensive oral exam. These images are essential for diagnosing and planning your treatment. If you’ve had x-rays taken within the last 12 months, please have them sent to our office before your appointment. If you are unable to have x-rays taken, please inform the hygienist when providing your medical history.
  3. Oral Screening and Teeth Exams: We will perform an oral cancer and lesion screening to check for symptoms of cancer and other systemic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. Following that, we’ll examine your teeth for signs of decay and other issues.
  4. Gum Evaluation and Teeth Cleanings: Our hygienist will evaluate the health of your gums by measuring periodontal pockets with a probe. They will then thoroughly clean your teeth, focusing on removing tartar, plaque, and calculus buildup.
  5. Oral Hygiene Habits: To conclude your visit, we’ll review and reinforce proper oral hygiene practices, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to maintain your dental health at home.

At Del Mar View Dental Care, we strive to make your first visit comfortable and informative, setting the foundation for a lasting partnership in maintaining your oral health.

At Del Mar View Dental Care, when you come in for a cleaning, our skilled dental hygienists carefully identify and remove both plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a soft film that can be removed with regular brushing, while tartar is hardened plaque that requires specialized dental instruments for removal. We take the time to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth, including those tiny spaces between teeth and along the gum line where bacteria tend to accumulate.

To complete the cleaning, we often use a prophy paste. This paste has a coarse texture initially, which helps remove any remaining plaque. As it dissolves into a finer texture, it leaves your teeth shiny and smooth. We’ll also inform you of any areas where plaque and tartar have built up, so you can focus on those spots when brushing and flossing each day.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to effectively care for your teeth, ensuring a healthy and bright smile between visits.

At Del Mar View Dental Care, we understand that most dental insurance policies include benefits that cover teeth cleanings. This is because maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing serious and costly health problems in the future. Neglecting regular cleanings can lead to significant expenses down the road, making preventive care a smart and necessary investment.

We recognize that every patient’s financial situation is unique, and we’re here to help you navigate your options. During a consultation, we’re happy to discuss your budget and present any potential costs upfront, making it easier for you to understand and utilize your insurance benefits. Our primary goal is to ensure you have a successful and stress-free oral health experience.