Sixty years ago, few people saw their dentist regularly. A trip to the dental chair happened only after trauma occurred, or when a toothache became unbearable. Today, we understand the benefits of regular dental checkups to appearance, oral health, and whole-body wellness. Dr. Don Mungcal discusses the best dental care schedule for patients of Downtown Dental in Los Angeles, California.
The bi-annual standard
The ideal schedule for dental visits depends a great deal on your personal oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and health conditions. For most reasonably healthy people who brush and floss regularly, a cleaning and examination twice a year is adequate. It is not advisable to go longer than six months, as stains may build up, and harmful oral bacteria counts increase. By catching gum disease and tooth decay early, it can be treated with the least discomfort and expense, and the best outcome. Dr. Mungcal also screens for oral cancers for early detection and the best prognosis.
When more frequent recall appointments are needed
For patients who are at high risk of dental disease, Dr. Mungcal suggests visits every four months, three months, or even more frequently in extreme cases.
This higher risk group includes:
- Patients managing existing gum disease
- Pregnant women
- Smokers
- Patients with diabetes
- Those with a natural tendency to develop cavities or build-up of plaque
- Anyone with a weakened immune system and low resistance to bacterial infection (such as chemotherapy patients)
- Patients who grind or clench
A temporary increase in recall appointments during a time of illness or stress may help you prevent a serious or permanent oral problem.
The hygienists at Downtown Dental provides a thorough cleaning that removes bacterial plaque in hard-to-reach spots. Teeth are polished and flossed. The dentist performs an assessment of teeth and soft tissues and may order X-rays. You leave the office with fresh breath and peace of mind.
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Home » Blog » What is the best dental care schedule for California patients? Los Angeles dentist explains
Dr. Don Mungcal
Dr. Tara Mavadat
Dr. Ivan Chan
As the cornerstone and founder of Downtown Dental,
Dr. Don Mungcal is a proactive and
exceptionally talented dentist who is determined to contribute to the health and wellbeing of his community by
attending to their dental care needs.
With over 28 years of experience and service,
Dr. Mungcal makes it his responsibility to
be the best version of himself by being his patients’ go-to point for any and all dental concerns. In addition
to being meticulous in his work ethic, he is also an individual who understands development and change. He
updates and informs himself constantly through various continuous educational programs that he undertakes. He
also invests in the latest state-of-the-art technology to provide world-class dental services.
Dr. Mungcal graduated from
UCLA and the
University of the Pacific Dental
School and is presently a member of several acclaimed medical associations, including the
California Dental Society.
Dr. Tara Mavadat was always passionate about
dentistry and is committed to helping patients achieve excellent oral health and beautiful smiles that last
long. Having earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of the Pacific Dugoni School of
Dentistry, she focuses on comprehensive general dentistry with an emphasis on preventive dentistry. Her primary
goals are to provide comfort and quality as well as exceptional esthetic outcomes to every patient.
Dr. Ivan Chan is enthusiastic about dentistry
and his patients' oral health and is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care. He is a highly
skilled dentist who received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, San Diego. He earned
his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry.
Dr. Chan has extensive training in general dentistry. He focuses on creating lasting smiles while attempting to
prevent gum disease and cavities. He looks forward to assisting you with all your needs while assuring you that
your trust is always in good hands, regardless of your needs!