A typical dental cleaning and consultation dental appointment comprises a visual inspection of your teeth, gums, and oral cavity. If it has been more than one year since your previous dental visit, then X-rays may also be necessary for a more comprehensive view of your teeth. 

Dental cleanings and examinations are two different procedures that are typically performed in a single appointment:

During a dental cleaning:

• Your dentist or hygienist will remove accumulated plaque and tartar using special tools, such as a metal scaler that physically scrapes off the built-up bacteria, or an ultrasonic scaler that uses vibration. 
• The dentist will squirt water into your mouth to rinse of the plaque. A suction tool will also be applied in your mouth to suck the water out immediately 
• Your teeth will be polished using a gritty toothpaste, and then flossed

During the dental exam, the dentist will: 

• Visually inspect your mouth using a mirror and small instruments, including a probe to test the surface of each tooth 
• Examine teeth, checking for signs of decay, sensitivity, grinding, or excessive tooth wear 
• Evaluate your gums for signs of swelling, bleeding, or irritation. Your gum pockets will also be measured to check for gum recession 
• Evaluate your bite and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), checking for proper alignments and shift in your bite (underbite, overbite, or crooked bite)
• Check the soft tissues in your mouth, including the texture and size of your tongue, tonsils, and throat for signs of infection, and salivary glands for proper saliva secretion 
• Complete an oral cancer screening to check for signs of infection around your cheeks, tongue, palate, neck, head, and lymph nodes 
• Take dental X-rays for diagnostic information about non-visible parts of your mouth, including the underlying bone structure 

You can then discuss with your dentist or hygienist in Oxnard, CA about the findings of your dental exam and any problems you may have with your teeth or gums while advising you on better flossing or brushing technique You can also ask any questions concerning your oral health. Finally, your dentist will provide treatment recommendations, tell you how to improve your at-home oral care routine and advise you on the best time to schedule your next routine visit or appointment for necessary treatment.