Most people see a dentist twice a year, yet many are not sure what actually happens behind the exam light, or why those visits matter so much. As the founder of NoHo Dental Group in North Hollywood, I want to explain what a dentist does, when you should come in, and how our team works together to care for your smile from your first cleaning to more complex treatment.
What Does a Dentist Do?
A dentist is a doctor of oral health. Our job goes well beyond cleaning teeth. A dentist examines your teeth, gums, jaw and the soft tissues of your mouth, diagnoses problems, and treats them before they grow into something bigger. That includes:
- Preventing problems with regular cleanings and exams, X-rays when needed, and advice you can use at home.
- Finding and treating tooth decay with tooth-colored dental fillings while cavities are still small.
- Protecting your gums, because gum disease can progress quietly and is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
- Relieving pain and infection, including root canal therapy that can save a natural tooth.
- Replacing missing teeth with dental implants or dentures.
- Improving how your smile looks and works, from teeth whitening and veneers to Invisalign and braces.
A dentist is also often the first to notice signs of problems elsewhere in the body. Research has linked gum health with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, which is one reason routine visits are about more than a bright smile.
General Dentist or Specialist: What Is the Difference?
A general dentist is your main point of care for everyday oral health. Dental specialists complete additional years of training in one area. At NoHo Dental Group, you have both under one roof:
- Dr. Jacob Kohanoff provides general and cosmetic dentistry for adults and children.
- Dr. Bijan Afar, a board-certified periodontist, leads our implant and gum care.
- Dr. Allen Jacobson, our orthodontist, provides braces and clear aligners.
- Dr. Kakoli, our endodontist, performs root canal therapy.
For you, that means fewer referrals across town, one shared chart, and a team that already knows your history when you need more than a routine visit. If you are comparing practices in the area, our page on finding a dentist near you in North Hollywood covers our location, hours and parking in one place.
How Often Should You See a Dentist?
Many patients do well with a cleaning and exam about every six months. Some people benefit from more frequent visits, for example if they have a history of gum disease, are prone to cavities, or are managing a health condition that affects the mouth. Your dentist will recommend an interval based on what we see, not a one-size-fits-all schedule.
Do not wait for your next checkup if you notice any of these:
- A toothache, or pain when you bite down
- Gums that bleed, swell or feel tender
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods that does not go away
- A chipped, cracked or loose tooth, or a lost filling or crown
- Jaw pain, clicking or frequent headaches, which can be linked to TMJ problems
For urgent problems such as a broken tooth or severe toothache, see our emergency dentist page and call us as soon as possible. If you have swelling that spreads toward your eye or neck, or trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What Happens at a Dental Visit at NoHo Dental Group
- Getting to know you. We review your health history, medications and any concerns you have about your teeth.
- A thorough exam. Your dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite and the soft tissues of your mouth, and takes X-rays when they are needed.
- A professional cleaning. Our hygienists remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot reach.
- A clear conversation. We explain what we found in plain language, show you your options and answer your questions before you decide anything.
If dental visits make you anxious, tell us. We will talk through comfort and sedation options that fit your health history, and we will go at your pace. New to our office? Our guide to what to bring to your first visit helps you arrive prepared.
How to Choose the Right Dentist for You
A good dentist is someone you trust to tell you the truth about your mouth. When you compare practices, look for:
- Clear explanations and treatment plans you understand before you agree to them.
- Experience across many types of care, so a new problem does not mean starting over somewhere else.
- Convenient access: hours, parking, accessibility and how quickly they can see you for an urgent problem.
- Clear payment options, including insurance and financing, discussed before treatment starts.
For more on this, read 5 signs you have found a great dentist near you. Patients who travel from across the city can also learn why many choose our multi-specialty dental office in Los Angeles.
Your Dentist in North Hollywood
NoHo Dental Group is at 11126 Chandler Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601, in the NoHo Arts District. We see patients Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with Saturday and Sunday by appointment. Free street parking is available on Chandler Blvd, and our entrance is wheelchair accessible.
We welcome new patients of all ages, accept most major insurance plans and offer CareCredit financing. Patients come to us from North Hollywood, Studio City, Toluca Lake, Valley Village, Sherman Oaks, Burbank and Glendale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a dentist?
No. You can book directly with NoHo Dental Group. If you need a specialist, such as a periodontist, orthodontist or endodontist, they are in the same office.
Do you see children?
Yes. We care for patients of all ages. Learn more about our kids dentistry.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a photo ID, your dental insurance card if you have one, and a list of any medications you take.
Can I see a dentist the same day for an emergency?
We hold time for urgent dental problems. Call us as early as you can and we will tell you how soon we can see you.
Book a Visit With Our Dental Team
Whether it has been six months or six years since your last visit, we are glad to see you. Request an appointment online or call (747) 339-7016. You can also visit our North Hollywood dentist page for directions, hours and parking.
