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Preventing and treating dental disease is essential for overall health and well-being at every stage of life.
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Children need their baby teeth to eat and speak properly and to help keep space for adult teeth to settle in.
In adulthood, poor oral hygiene and lack of proper dental care can lead to a serious form of disease called periodontitis. This is a gum infection that may cause bleeding, pain, and damage to tissue and surrounding bone, and may result in tooth loss. In fact, researchers have found that periodontitis is linked to diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Older adults may experience dry mouth, especially if they are taking multiple medications, which increases the risk of tooth decay. Older adults are also at higher risk for mouth cancer, which can be diagnosed early during routine dental exams. |
What do I need to do for good dental health?
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Brush your teeth properly twice a day and use toothpaste with fluoride Watch the video or read these simple instructions from the American Dental Association (ADA) on how to brush properly. |
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Floss Every
Day Watch the video or read these simple instructions from the ADA on how to floss properly. |
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Choose Water Here are some fun and delicious suggestions to help make tap water your family’s favorite choice. |
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Eat a healthy and balanced diet Learn why a healthy diet is so important for a healthy mouth here and visit ChooseHealthLA.com for tips on eating well for your health in Los Angeles. |
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Don't Smoke If you do smoke, reach out to the California Smokers’ Helpline at 1-800-NO-BUTTS and get help to quit smoking. Watch this video or to visit this webpage to learn more about how tobacco use effects your oral health. |
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Get a check-up every six months from a licensed dentist Children should visit a dentist when they reach their first birthday or once their first baby tooth comes in. Everyone, children and adults, should visit a dentist for routine check-ups and preventive care every 6 months. |
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Learn about dental sealants Sealants are thin coatings that are painted on to the back teeth to help prevent cavities. They are recommended for all children from age 6 as well as for some adults. Visit the ADA sealant webpage or view their video to learn more. |
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Take extra care with your teeth if you are pregnant Taking care of your mouth during pregnancy is important for your baby and you ! Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby. Watch the ADA video or visit their webpage to learn more about Healthy Dental Habits to Practice During Pregnancy. |
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How can I get free or low-cost dental care?
Free and low-cost dental care is available in Los Angeles County to any child or adult who needs it regardless of their ability to pay or their immigration status. Here’s how to get started:
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Find a Health Care Program
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Learn about paying for dental care If you are not eligible for these programs or need care that is not covered:
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How to avoid a dental scam and what to do if you are a victim of a scam
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Beware of Unlicensed Dentists
Some people seek care from an unlicensed or “garage” dentist who might cost less or are able to see patients quickly. People might not know that the “dentist” who treated them was not licensed or qualified. Unlicensed dentists perform a range of illegal and potentially harmful dental work including removing teeth, performing root canals, and doing tests such as x-rays. They may work out of offices, homes, and other non-clinical, unhygienic settings such as hair salons, garages, and restaurants. They may also operate illegal dental laboratories that make implants and dentures that are poor quality or unsafe. People who practice illegally often have limited dental experience in the U.S., or even no dental experience at all. Others may have been dentists in their home country but are unable to get a license in California. They may have lost their license due to malpractice or illegal activities. Getting dental care from an unlicensed person can lead to dangerous complications, such as infection from dirty dental instruments, permanent injury, and chronic health problems. Going to an illegal dentist can also delay or prevent a person from getting the proper treatment that they really need
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How Can I Report a Problem?
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To find health care, dial 2-1-1 for the Los Angeles County Infoline or visit www.211la.org
Check into Medi-Cal Dental by calling the Beneficiary Helpline at 1-800-322-6384 or visit Denti-Cal.
For free or low cost dental care, contact local Dental Schools.
To check your dentist's license, visit the CA Department of Consumer Affairs License Search Website. If you have been a victim of an unlicensed dentist:
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Call the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs Consumer Helpline at 1-800-593-8222
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File a complaint with the Dental Board of California
