Visit your dental provider regularly for a routine dental exam. A routine dental exam may include x-rays, a gum health assessment, a dental cleaning, and an exam done by the dental provider to diagnose any cavities.
Dental exams can help detect and treat issues with your teeth or gums before they affect your overall health, become painful, or become costly.
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During your dental visit, the dentist will perform a gum health assessment. The dentist will evaluate the gum tissues, color, and texture. The assessment will also monitor any signs of gum problems. After the assessment, the dental professional may recommend a dental cleaning. The two most commonly offered cleanings are a regular dental cleaning (prophylaxis) or a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing).
With today’s dental treatment advancements, there are several optional procedures a patient can choose (e.g., laser treatment, antimicrobials placed under the gums). Know all your options and consult with your provider as needed.
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Regular dental cleaning (prophylaxis) is recommended for patients with healthy gums and minimal tartar buildup above the gum line. Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is recommended for patients with gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing and a moderate buildup of tartar above and below the gums.
After having a deep cleaning, it is important to note that more frequent cleanings may be needed to maintain the gums and supporting structures of the mouth in good health. Your dental provider may suggest having dental cleanings at 3-5 month intervals.
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A dental provider or dental professional is a licensed individual who can provide dental services to you. A dental office is not limited to just a dentist. There are many other types of dental professionals. You may receive a preventive dental service from a Registered Dental Hygienist, a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice, or a Periodontist.
Services provided by these professionals are not limited to a dental clinic. You may be able to receive services in your community, such as a school, a nursing home, or from a mobile dental clinic. A few preventive treatments include: a dental cleaning, fluoride varnish application, placement of sealants, and placement of a temporary filling.
Restorative treatments can only be provided by a dentist in a clinical or community setting; these treatments include permanent cavity fillings, tooth extractions, root canal therapies, etc.
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The Medi-Cal Dental Program covers a variety of free or low-cost dental services for Medi-Cal members. Services covered by Medi-Cal Dental may include exams, x-rays, and cleaning.
As of May 1st, 2022, adults ages 50 and older can receive full scope Medi-Cal services. This includes all free or low-cost dental services covered by the Medi-Cal Dental Program.
If you are uninsured, you also have options for dental care services. Visit the Find a Dentist and Paying for Dental Care resource pages to learn more.
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