We love our new patients! A warm and inviting welcome, courtesy of the all-important initial visit

At Advanced Dental, we support the oral health needs of the entire family from our well-appointed office in Aliso Viejo, California. While daily brushing and flossing at home are essential to oral health, they are not a substitute for our professional expertise. This professional expertise is embodied by our comprehensive exams. These exams should be scheduled at least once every six months, and this journey to sustained oral health and wellness starts with the all-important new patient exam.

What to expect      

During your first visit, you will get to know our team led by Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula. Dr. Tiruveedula supports the health of patients of all ages, from 2-year-old grandchildren to 98-year-old grandparents. She provides a complete and sound examination of the state and condition of your teeth, gums, and the soft and hard tissues and structures of the mouth and jaw. A series of digital X-rays complements this exam to aid in detecting oral problems (like tooth decay and oral cancers) at their earliest stages when they are easiest to treat.

You will also meet one of our experienced hygienists, who will perform a thorough and gentle cleaning. During this cleaning, they effectively remove stubborn tartar and stains that may have built up since your last cleaning. Patients with more severe inflammation may benefit from the expertise of our board-certified periodontist or gum disease specialist, Dr. Joseph C. Yang. After all, the health of your teeth depends on the health of the gums that surround, protect, and otherwise “frame” them!

Checkups and cleanings to maintain sound oral health

You may have family members ranging in age from one year to 98 years. It’s important that each one of them visits the dentist once every six months for professional dental exams and cleanings. It starts with the first new patient visit and is continued with regular checkups every six months.

These will alert the Advanced Dental team to your oral health problems early, so prompt action is possible. If you live in Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, or the surrounding communities in California, contact us to schedule your exam and cleaning. 

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Tailored care

This initial visit and succeeding regular 6-month “checkups” are also great opportunities to ask specific questions about things like your home care routine. We can advise on good brushing and flossing techniques to help you better clean your teeth and other parts of the mouth that harbor harmful bacteria. Additionally, we may recommend “dentist-approved” toothpaste, brushes, floss, interdental brushes, and floss threaders to effectively clean areas such as hard-to-reach spaces under dental bridges. We are happy to explore our full range of cosmetic, preventative, and restorative dentistry solutions with you as needed.

Contact Advanced Dental today to schedule your new patient exam. Our friendly and knowledgeable team in Aliso Viejo, CA, can be reached at (949) 289-9993.

Dental Exams & Cleanings FAQs

What happens during a dental exam at Advanced Dental?

A dental exam at Advanced Dental begins in a welcoming, patient-focused environment led by Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula. The exam includes a careful evaluation of the teeth, gums, jaw, and oral tissues to check for decay, infection, bite concerns, or other changes. Digital X-rays may be taken to identify issues that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth or early bone changes. These comprehensive exams play an essential role in maintaining long-term oral health.

How often should I schedule a dental exam and cleaning?

Most patients are advised to schedule dental exams and cleanings every six months. These regular visits allow dental professionals to prevent problems before they worsen and to monitor changes in oral health over time. For some individuals with gum disease or other concerns, more frequent visits may be recommended. Routine appointments also provide opportunities to receive personalized guidance on home care habits.

What can I expect during my first visit to Advanced Dental?

During your first visit, you will meet the dental team and review your medical and dental history. Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula performs a thorough exam of your teeth, gums, and oral structures, often supported by digital X-rays. A hygienist then completes a professional cleaning to remove buildup and stains. The visit concludes with a discussion of findings, recommendations, and any questions you may have about your care.

Why are professional cleanings important if I brush and floss daily?

While daily brushing and flossing are essential, they cannot remove hardened tartar or all plaque buildup. Professional cleanings target areas that are difficult to reach at home, helping reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Hygienists use specialized tools to clean along the gumline and polish teeth, supporting healthier gums and fresher breath.

Can Advanced Dental help improve my home oral care routine?

Yes, dental visits are an excellent time to receive guidance on brushing and flossing techniques. The dental team offers personalized advice based on your specific needs, including recommendations for dentist-approved products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, or interdental tools. These suggestions help patients clean more effectively between visits.

What should I do if I have specific dental concerns or questions?

Patients are encouraged to discuss any concerns during their appointments. Whether questions relate to sensitivity, cosmetic goals, restorative options, or preventive care, the dental team takes time to explain findings and available solutions. Open communication helps ensure treatment plans align with your comfort level and long-term oral health goals.

How does Advanced Dental care for patients of different ages?

Advanced Dental provides care for patients at every stage of life, from young children to older adults. Treatment approaches are tailored based on age, oral development, and individual health needs. This family-focused model allows multiple generations to receive consistent, comprehensive dental care in one setting.

How do dental exams help detect problems early?

Routine exams allow dentists to identify early signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and bite issues before symptoms become noticeable. Early detection often means simpler and more conservative treatment. Digital imaging and careful clinical evaluation work together to support timely intervention.

What role does the hygienist play during exams and cleanings?

Hygienists are responsible for performing professional cleanings and monitoring gum health. They remove plaque, tartar, and stains while also assessing inflammation or pocket depth around the teeth. If advanced gum concerns are present, coordination with Dr. Joseph C. Yang may be recommended.

How do regular dental exams support long-term oral wellness?

Consistent exams and cleanings help maintain healthy teeth and gums while reducing the risk of tooth loss, infection, and complex procedures. Preventive care supports comfort, function, and confidence, making it easier to preserve oral health over time through early action and ongoing monitoring. 

Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula

Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula

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Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. After advanced training at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, she relocated to Orange County, CA in 2015. Dr. Chitra is a member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association. Committed to continuous education, she provides top-quality dental services using the latest advancements.

Dr. Joseph C. Yang

Dr. Joseph C. Yang

Dr. Joseph C. Yang has over 30 years of dental practice experience. He earned his B.S. from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, and his D.D.S. from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He then had a distinguished 30-year career as a U.S. Naval Dental Officer, including a residency in Periodontology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Yang is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a member of the American Dental Association and American Academy of Periodontology. As a board-certified Periodontist, he has performed thousands of successful periodontal and implant procedures. He is also a renowned lecturer and trainer in the latest implant and periodontal techniques worldwide.