You can get a teeth cleaning and exam in Huntington Park at 3058 E Gage Ave, where we care for the whole family. A professional cleaning removes the plaque and tartar that build up even when you brush well, and regular exams help catch small problems before they grow.
What happens during a professional cleaning?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. Brushing and flossing clear away most of it, but some stays behind in hard-to-reach places, and over time that leftover plaque hardens into tartar. Once that happens, a toothbrush can’t remove it. A routine cleaning goes something like this:
- Tartar is removed with small instruments, mostly along the gumline and between the teeth.
- The teeth are polished with a slightly gritty paste that smooths the surface.
- A final flossing clears out anything left between them.
Polishing can take off some surface stains from coffee or tea, but it won’t change the natural shade of your teeth. To make them whiter, ask us about teeth whitening.
What the exam looks for
The dentist checks each tooth for decay, cracks, and wear. Your gums get a careful look as well, and so does any dental work you already have, like fillings or crowns. X-rays can show decay hiding between two teeth or under an old filling. You won’t need them at every visit, and we’ll let you know when it’s time for new ones.
Sometimes the exam finds a cavity, or a tooth that needs a crown. When that happens, Dr. Livier Mora explains your options before any work begins. You’ll know the cost up front, and then you decide.
How often should you get your teeth cleaned?
We’ll suggest a schedule based on your teeth and gums. For many people, that’s a cleaning every six months, though some need to come in more often, for example when tartar builds up quickly.
Many dental problems start small and quiet. A cavity can grow for months before it hurts, and early gum problems often don’t hurt at all. Caught at a checkup, they’re usually easier to treat. If you already have a toothache or a broken tooth, don’t wait for your next cleaning. Call us about emergency dental care.
Between visits, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. Cutting back on sugary drinks and snacks helps too.
Prices and insurance
New patients pay $75 for a full exam and digital X-rays (the regular price is $149). A cleaning isn’t included in that price, but we’ll tell you what it costs ahead of time, as we do with every treatment.
We accept most PPO dental plans. Plans don’t all cover the same things, so tell us the name of yours when you call. You don’t need insurance to book, and financing through CareCredit or Cherry is available for larger treatment if you’re approved.
Haven’t had a cleaning in years?
It happens to a lot of people. Cost or a single bad experience can keep someone away from the dentist for years. No one here will judge you for how long it’s been or hurry you through the visit. If you’re nervous, mention it when you book. Dr. Mora is known for her gentle touch.
Everyone on our team speaks English and Spanish, so the whole visit can be in whichever language you prefer.
Good to know before your cleaning
What’s the difference between a cleaning and an exam?
In a cleaning, plaque and tartar come off and your teeth are polished. In an exam, the dentist checks your teeth, gums, and any fillings or crowns, with X-rays when they’re needed.
Does a teeth cleaning hurt?
Usually not. You’ll probably feel some pressure and scraping, and sensitive teeth or spots with a lot of tartar can feel tender. Tell us if anything bothers you. We work calmly and at your pace.
Does the $75 new-patient visit include a cleaning?
No. The $75 covers a full exam and digital X-rays (regular price $149). If you need a cleaning, you’ll know its price before we begin.
Can my kids have their teeth cleaned here too?
Yes. As a family practice, we see kids as well as their parents, starting with a child’s first cleaning.
I used to go to Michel Family Dentistry. Can I still come here for cleanings?
Yes. This is the same office, at the same address and with the same phone number. Dr. Ana Michel cared for Huntington Park families here for more than 30 years, and she chose Dr. Mora to continue that care. Call us when you’re due for your next cleaning.
To book a teeth cleaning or exam in Huntington Park, call (323) 581-2603 or send us a request with the form below. A request isn’t a booking until our team confirms a time with you, usually within one business day.