Dental Checkup in San Francisco, CA

Regular dental checkups are a foundation of preventive oral health. Routine checkups at Habelt Dentistry include a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth by our skilled dentists, along with a professional cleaning. The visits prevent cavities and gum disease and detect any problems early when they are easiest to treat. The optimal way to avoid gum disease is daily brushing and flossing, combined with regular professional exams and cleanings.

What to Expect at Your Checkup

• Comprehensive Examination: Your dentist will meticulously inspect your teeth, gums, tongue, throat, temporomandibular joints, and occlusion. We screen for caries, gingival recession, enamel wear or fractures, and signs of oral cancer or systemic conditions manifesting in the mouth. All findings are discussed transparently, empowering you with a clear understanding of your diagnosis and treatment options.
• Professional Cleaning: Our registered dental hygienist gently removes plaque and calculus from all tooth surfaces, including subgingival areas. This scaling and polishing procedure leaves your teeth smooth and pristine. (In our practice, a "recall" appointment refers to this standard checkup and cleaning session.) Even diligent home oral hygiene cannot fully replicate professional cleanings, which are essential for preventing caries and periodontal disease.
• Digital Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging: When indicated, we utilize low-dose digital dental radiographs to visualize inaccessible regions, such as interproximal spaces or subgingival structures. These images enable early identification of decay, monitoring of alveolar bone levels, and evaluation of root morphology, with radiation exposure reduced to approximately one-sixth that of traditional film-based X-rays. Our advanced digital system provides immediate, high-resolution images, enhancing diagnostic precision and expediting specialist referrals if needed.
• Periodontal and Oral Cancer Screening: We measure periodontal pocket depths to assess for gum disease; healthy gingiva adheres tightly, while deepened pockets may signal inflammation or attachment loss. Additionally, we conduct a visual and tactile examination of intraoral soft tissues—including the cheeks, tongue, and pharynx—for irregularities such as lesions, ulcers, or discolorations. Early detection of pathologies, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma, markedly improves prognosis and treatment outcomes.
• Preventive Guidance: Every visit includes personalized instructions on brushing and flossing techniques. Our hygienists and dentists address your inquiries and recommend evidence-based products or habits to optimize oral health. Combining diligent at-home care with regular professional evaluations and prophylaxis is crucial for maintaining optimal dental and gingival health.

Advanced Technology & Comfort

At Habelt Dentistry, we integrate state-of-the-art technology to ensure checkups are both precise and patient-centered. For example, we employ high-magnification microscopes and ergonomic electric handpieces during procedures. These microscopes allow visualization of minute details, akin to ophthalmic precision, resulting in restorations—such as composites or crowns—that exhibit superior fit and longevity, while reducing procedural noise and vibration.

• Digital Radiography: As noted, our system captures crisp images instantly on digital displays, minimizing radiation exposure compared to traditional film methods and enabling the prompt detection of incipient caries or osseous changes.
• Laser Dentistry: We utilize soft-tissue and hard-tissue lasers for a range of applications, including caries removal and gingival contouring without the need for drills, thermal effects, or mechanical disruption. Often, local anesthesia is unnecessary, streamlining treatments and enhancing comfort. Lasers can detect occult caries at nascent stages, potentially allowing remineralization via fluoride therapy. Furthermore, they promote accelerated wound healing post-periodontal therapy or minor surgeries.
• Intraoral Camera: This miniature device captures magnified, high-definition images of your teeth and gingiva, projected in real-time during your exam. Patients can directly observe features such as microfractures, stains, or early demineralization, which fosters a better understanding of diagnoses. This visual aid supports more accurate and efficient decision-making, reducing overall treatment duration.
• Sedation Options for Anxiety Management: For patients experiencing dental phobia, we offer nitrous oxide inhalation sedation. This odorless, non-irritating gas, administered via nasal mask, induces relaxation and mild euphoria without causing unconsciousness. It effectively mitigates anxiety and gag reflexes, dissipating rapidly upon discontinuation, with no lingering sequelae.

Meet Our Dentists

Dr. Erich K. Habelt, DDS – Since earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1984, Dr. Habelt has dedicated over 40 years to serving the families of San Francisco. Specializing in general and preventive dentistry, he supports patients across the lifespan—from pediatric to geriatric— in maintaining vibrant oral health. Committed to lifelong learning, he exceeds continuing education mandates, ensuring access to cutting-edge technologies and compassionate care.

Dr. Thomas A. Habelt, DDS – A native of San Francisco, Dr. Thomas Habelt graduated from the University of the Pacific's Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. He is passionate about leveraging innovative dental technologies and evidence-based protocols to deliver comfortable, efficacious care. With expertise in Invisalign orthodontics, aesthetic enhancements, and restorative procedures, he emphasizes patient empowerment through comprehensive education on treatment rationales and plans.

Both dentists maintain active memberships in the California Dental Association and American Dental Association, underscoring their dedication to excellence in clinical standards.

Insurance & Payment Options

We accept many dental insurance plans and can help you maximize your coverage. Please provide your insurance details prior to your visit, so our team can assist with claims and address any questions you may have.

For uninsured patients, we offer flexible payment options and financing to ensure access to preventive services. If you have questions about coverage or costs, please don't hesitate to contact us for personalized options.

Schedule Your Checkup Today

Ready for your dental checkup? Contact our courteous staff at (415) 665-8397 to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, you can fill out the online request for an appointment on our website.