Dental Exams and Teeth Cleanings in Long Beach, CA
A regular exam and cleaning is the simplest way to keep your teeth healthy and avoid bigger, costlier problems later. At Salem Dentistry in Long Beach, Dr. Roxana Salem, DDS, examines every patient herself, children and adults alike, and takes the time to show you what she sees and explain your options.
Call 562-435-8339 or book online
Why patients choose Salem Dentistry for exams and cleanings
- The same dentist every visit. Dr. Salem does every exam, so she knows your teeth and your history.
- See what we see. Intraoral camera photos show your own teeth on a screen, so you understand exactly what’s going on.
- Low-radiation digital X-rays taken right in our office.
- An oral cancer screening and gum check at your exam.
- Gentle care for nervous patients, with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) available.
- The whole family in one office. We see children from 6 months old through adults.
- All PPO plans and Medi-Cal Dental accepted, with affordable options if you don’t have insurance.
- Care in three languages: English, German, and Farsi.
What happens at your exam
- Health history. We ask about your health, medications, and any concerns, since these can affect your teeth and gums.
- Digital X-rays. When needed, X-rays show cavities between teeth, infections, and bone levels that can’t be seen by eye.
- Tooth-by-tooth check. Dr. Salem looks for cavities, cracks, worn fillings, and signs of grinding.
- Gum measurements. We gently measure the space between your teeth and gums to check for gum disease.
- Oral cancer screening. Dr. Salem checks your tongue, cheeks, throat, and the rest of your mouth for anything unusual.
- Your results. She shows you photos of your teeth, explains what she found, and goes over any treatment and costs before anything is done.
What happens at your cleaning
Your cleaning is done by Dr. Salem or one of our dental hygienists. Even with great brushing, plaque hardens into tartar that only professional tools can remove.
- Plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth and along the gumline
- Your teeth are polished to remove surface stains
- Your teeth are flossed, and we show you any spots you’re missing at home
- Fluoride is applied when it’s recommended for you
Regular cleaning or deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning is for healthy gums and cleans above the gumline. If your gum measurements show gum disease, you may need a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. It removes tartar and bacteria from below the gumline so your gums can heal and reattach to your teeth. Dr. Salem provides deep cleanings right here in our office, with the area numbed so you stay comfortable.
Signs of gum disease include:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth
- Loose teeth
Care between visits
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once a day
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Replace your toothbrush every three months
See our oral hygiene page for step-by-step brushing and flossing instructions.
Questions patients ask
How often should I have an exam and cleaning?
Most people should come in every six months. If you have gum disease or get cavities often, Dr. Salem may recommend coming in more often.
Does a cleaning hurt?
A regular cleaning should not hurt. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, tell us and we’ll go gently. For deep cleanings, we numb the area first.
How long does the visit take?
Plan on about an hour for an exam and cleaning. A first visit may take a little longer.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Digital X-rays use very little radiation, and we only take them when they’re needed.
I haven’t been to the dentist in years. Is that a problem?
Not at all. You’ll never be judged here. Dr. Salem will see where things stand and make a plan with you, one step at a time.
I’m nervous about the dentist. Can you help?
Yes. We explain each step before we begin and go at your pace. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available to help you relax.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are usually an early sign of gum disease. Caught early, it can often be reversed with a professional cleaning and good home care.
Does insurance cover exams and cleanings?
Most dental plans cover two exams and cleanings a year. We accept all PPO dental plans and Medi-Cal Dental, and we do not accept HMO plans. Call us and we’ll check your benefits for you.
What if I don’t have insurance?
We have affordable options for patients without insurance. Call us at 562-435-8339 for current pricing.
Schedule your exam and cleaning
Call Salem Dentistry at 562-435-8339 or book online today. We’d love to help you keep your smile healthy.