General Dentist Santa Monica
Our practice provides general dentistry procedures including the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide variety of conditions and diseases that affect your teeth and gums.
We Are Committed to Your Oral Health
At Santa Monica Dental Studio, we are committed to ensuring your oral health is in excellent condition. We make this possible through a variety of different procedures that comprehensively aim to improve or enhance your mouth’s well-being.
We offer a wide range of general dentistry services including:
- Dental cleaning
- Dental examinations
- Dental X-rays
- Deep cleaning
- Root scaling and planing
- And more!
Personalized Oral Hygiene
At Santa Monica Dental Studio, we work with each and every patient to establish a customized dental hygiene plan that incorporates dental exams, x-rays, thorough teeth cleanings, tooth scaling and deep cleaning (if necessary), as well as the use of other diagnostic equipment to prevent and treat conditions that affect your oral health.
We’re Here to Help You
If you have any questions regarding the general dentistry services we provide, then please call our office at 310-453-4488.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does general dentistry include?
General dentistry covers the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of oral health conditions. This includes routine exams, professional cleanings, X-rays, fillings, crowns, extractions, and gum disease treatment — essentially everything needed to maintain a healthy mouth.
2. How often should I visit the dentist for a checkup?
Most patients benefit from visiting every six months. However, some patients with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or other ongoing concerns may need to come in every three to four months. Dr. Sadat will recommend a schedule based on your individual needs.
3. What happens during a general dentistry exam?
During your exam, Dr. Sadat will visually inspect your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, review any X-rays, check your bite, and screen for signs of oral cancer. She will note any areas of concern and discuss a treatment plan if needed.
4. Is general dentistry covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive general dentistry services — such as exams and cleanings — at 100%. Restorative treatments like fillings and crowns are typically covered at a percentage. Our team is happy to verify your benefits before your appointment.
5. What is the difference between a general dentist and a specialist?
A general dentist provides comprehensive care for patients of all ages and handles the majority of dental needs. Specialists — such as orthodontists or oral surgeons — focus on a specific area of dentistry and typically receive referrals from general dentists for complex cases.
6. What are the most common general dentistry treatments?
The most common treatments include routine cleanings and exams, tooth-colored fillings for cavities, dental crowns for damaged teeth, tooth extractions, root canal therapy, night guards for grinding, and gum disease treatment.
7. Can general dentistry treat gum disease?
Yes. General dentists regularly diagnose and treat gum disease. Mild to moderate cases are often managed with a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. More advanced cases may be referred to a periodontist for specialized care.
8. What should I do if I have a dental emergency?
Call our office as soon as possible. We do our best to accommodate urgent and emergency cases the same day. Common dental emergencies include severe toothaches, cracked or knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and dental abscesses.
9. Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Modern digital dental X-rays use a very low level of radiation — significantly less than traditional film X-rays. We take X-rays only as often as clinically necessary and use protective lead aprons as a standard precaution.
10. What can I do to maintain good oral health between visits?
Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once a day, limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, drink plenty of water, and keep your scheduled dental appointments. These habits form the foundation of long-term oral health.
11. Do you see patients of all ages?
Yes. Santa Monica Dental Studio welcomes patients of all ages. Whether you are bringing in a young child for their first exam or seeking care as an older adult, our team provides attentive, age-appropriate care for everyone.
12. What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues to detect any early signs of cancerous or precancerous changes. It is a quick, painless part of your routine exam and can be life-saving when abnormalities are caught early.
13. Can you help with dental anxiety?
Absolutely. Dr. Sadat and our team are experienced in caring for anxious patients. We take a gentle, unhurried approach and take time to explain every step before we proceed. We can also discuss options to make your visit more comfortable.
14. How do I know if I have a cavity?
Early-stage cavities often have no symptoms at all, which is why regular exams and X-rays are so important. As a cavity progresses, you may notice sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible discoloration, or a persistent toothache. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment promptly.
15. What is the best way to prepare for my first appointment?
Bring your dental insurance card and a photo ID, arrive a few minutes early to complete any new patient paperwork, and be prepared to share your dental and medical history. Let us know about any medications you take or health conditions we should be aware of.