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Dental Cleaning & Exams in Los Angeles

Dental cleanings and exams in Mid-Wilshire with digital X-rays and oral cancer screening. Catch cavities and gum disease early. Call (310) 731-6119.

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Dental Cleanings & Exams in Los Angeles

Medically reviewed by Dr. Bijan Afar, DDS, MS — Periodontist & Oral Implantologist

Regular dental cleanings and exams are the foundation of preventive care. A cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot, and an exam lets us find problems like cavities and gum disease while they are small.

At Mid-Wilshire Dental Care, your visit is paired with a thorough exam and a clear explanation of what we find, so you know where your oral health stands.

What Happens During a Cleaning and Exam

  • Health history review and any concerns you have
  • Exam of your teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissues, including a screening for oral cancer
  • Digital X-rays when needed to see between teeth and below the gumline
  • Removal of plaque and tartar, followed by polishing
  • Personalized home-care advice and a recommended schedule for your next visit

Routine Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

A routine cleaning is meant for healthy gums. If your exam shows signs of gum disease, such as deep pockets around the teeth, bleeding, or bone loss on X-rays, a deeper cleaning below the gumline called scaling and root planing may be recommended instead. Gum disease needs treatment and ongoing maintenance, not just a standard cleaning.

How Often Should You Have a Cleaning?

Many people are advised to visit about twice a year, but the right schedule depends on your risk for decay and gum disease. If you have a history of gum disease, we may recommend more frequent visits. We will tell you what makes sense for you.

Mouth Sores: When to Get Checked

Most minor mouth sores, such as canker sores, heal on their own within about one to two weeks. A sore, patch, or lump that lasts longer than two weeks, keeps coming back, bleeds without a clear cause, or is white or red should be looked at by a dentist or doctor.

We examine the soft tissues of your mouth at every exam. If you notice a sore between visits, call us, and we can evaluate it and advise whether it needs treatment or a referral.

This information is not a diagnosis. Mouth sores can have many causes, and an exam is needed to identify them.

Related Care You May Be Looking For

This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for a dental examination. Recommendations depend on your individual health, and results vary from patient to patient.

What's Included

  • Thorough cleaning and a comprehensive exam in one visit
  • Screening of the soft tissues of the mouth, including oral cancer screening
  • Digital X-rays when needed
  • Early detection of cavities and gum disease

What to Expect

  1. 1

    Consultation

    We'll discuss your concerns, review your medical history, take digital images, and explain every option in plain language, no pressure, no surprises.

  2. 2

    Personalized plan

    Dr. Bijan creates a tailored treatment plan with clear pricing and timing. You decide what's right for you.

  3. 3

    Gentle treatment

    Our team delivers your treatment with care, using sedation when helpful and explaining each step along the way.

  4. 4

    Ongoing care

    We follow up to make sure you're healing well and provide guidance to keep your smile healthy for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a dental cleaning hurt?
Most people feel little more than pressure and some scraping sounds. If your gums are inflamed or your teeth are sensitive, tell us and we can adjust our approach to keep you comfortable.
Why do my gums bleed after a cleaning?
Bleeding usually means the gums are inflamed from plaque, which is common in early gum disease. It often improves with consistent brushing and cleaning between teeth. If it keeps happening, let us know so we can check for gum disease.
Does a cleaning whiten my teeth?
A cleaning removes surface stains and can make teeth look brighter, but it is not the same as whitening. If you want a noticeably lighter shade, ask us about professional teeth whitening.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
Many patients come about twice a year. Patients with gum disease or a higher risk of decay may need visits more often. We will recommend a schedule based on your exam.
How do I get started as a new patient?
Call our office at (310) 731-6119 or request an appointment online. We will tell you what to bring and answer questions about your visit.

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Ready to Get Started?

Schedule a consultation for cleanings & exams today. We'll answer your questions and help you decide what's right for your smile, no pressure.

Request an AppointmentCall (310) 731-6119

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