The health of your teeth and mouth is tied to the health of your whole body. Brushing and flossing at home keep your smile looking its best, but you also need regular visits to the dentist for a full exam and cleaning. At Primera Dental, we recommend that you visit your dentist every six months to keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking great.

What Are Dental Exams?

A dental exam is a routine check of your teeth and gums to help you keep your mouth healthy. During the exam, our dentist gathers information about your oral health for your dental record. The exam is the first step before any diagnosis. If our dentist finds a problem or signs of one, more tests may be needed.

What Is Dental Cleaning?

A thorough cleaning of your teeth, gums, and mouth is a big part of your checkup. If you don't have gum disease, you'll get a regular adult cleaning. If you do have gum disease, you may need a deeper cleaning of the gums. Checkups every 6 months are usually recommended. Dental cleanings include the following:

• Getting rid of any plaque and tartar

• Brushing your teeth

• Flossing the spaces between your teeth

• Reviewing how to brush and floss

• Fluoride treatment, which helps strengthen tooth enamel (the hard outer layer) and protect it from decay.

Why Are Dental Exams and Cleanings Needed?

Dental exams are routine checkups for your teeth and gums. Dental hygienists remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) that brushing and flossing at home can't. Exams and cleanings are usually recommended every six months.

The Benefits of Routine Exams and Cleanings

• Checkups help the dentist find problems before they get worse.

• Dental checkups and cleanings help to keep teeth and gums healthy.

• The sooner a problem is found, the more likely it can be treated in a simpler way.

• Regular exams and cleanings help protect your oral health, which is linked to your overall health. Poor oral health may raise your risk of long-term health problems, such as heart disease.

• Preventing a problem often costs less than treating it.

Caring for Your Smile Between Visits

Between checkups, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. If your gums bleed easily or your teeth feel sensitive after a cleaning, this is usually temporary, but let us know if it doesn't go away so we can check your gums.

Insurance & Financing Options

Primera Dental accepts Medi-Cal, so routine exams and cleanings are accessible to families across Lynwood and nearby communities. We also partner with Cherry to offer flexible financing if additional treatment is recommended during your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a dental exam and cleaning?

Most patients should visit every six months, though your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease or other ongoing concerns.

Is a dental cleaning painful?

Routine cleanings are generally comfortable. If you have sensitive teeth or swollen gums, you may feel mild discomfort, which our hygienists can help keep to a minimum.

Does Primera Dental accept Medi-Cal for exams and cleanings?

Yes, Medi-Cal is accepted, and Cherry financing is available for additional treatment needs.

What happens if the dentist finds a cavity during my exam?

We'll discuss your treatment options, such as a filling, and schedule a follow-up visit at a time that works for you.

Does Primera Dental serve patients outside Lynwood?

Yes, we welcome patients from Lynwood, South Gate, Compton, Paramount, Downey, Bell, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, and Cudahy.