In order to maintain a healthy and strong smile for the long-term, it’s crucial to combine professional care with at-home oral hygiene habits. No matter how diligently we care for our smiles at home, there are certain things that you need professional care for. Even if it has been a long time since you’ve come in for professional care, our Santa Monica dentists encourage you to take this opportunity get back on track!
The foundation of any healthy oral hygiene routine is the semi-annual professional cleaning. These appointments allow our team to clear away plaque and tartar that have accumulated over time. Tartar, in particular, because it is calcified to the dental enamel, is virtually impossible for patients to get rid of on their own.
During these appointments, our dentist will also screen your smile for signs of emerging damage, cavities, and gum disease. Early diagnosis and treatment will allow you to, hopefully, prevent long-term oral health problems from developing and growing out of control.
The unfortunate truth is that many oral health issues first develop asymptomatically, and are thus very difficult for people to recognize on their own. Regularly scheduled X-rays and assessments give us insight into what’s happening below the surface.
During your regularly scheduled appointments, we will also give you recommendations on how to care for your smile at home. There may small tweaks and improvements that you can make to help you get the most out of your oral hygiene routine. When we look at your smile, we’ll be able to tell whether you need to use any new tools or additional formulations to help you keep your mouth clean and healthy.
We understand that many people feel anxiety when it comes time for dental treatment, but we’re here to help you get the care you need precisely when you need it. You may be one of the many patients who will benefit from sedation dentistry. When you meet with our dental team, talk to them about your concerns; we’ll help you determine what type of relaxation solution is right for you.
The best way to get started is to schedule a personal consultation with our Santa Monica dentists. You can always call our office, or use the Contact Us page to submit an inquiry.