General Dentist in Riverside, California
Dr. Ali Shmara offers a full range of general dental services at our Riverside office. Whether you’re coming in for a routine visit or need treatment for a specific concern, we’re equipped to take care of you.
Comprehensive dental exams
During your exam, Dr. Shmara thoroughly evaluates your teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work. We check for cavities, signs of gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, and any emerging issues that could cause problems if left untreated. Early detection saves time, money, and discomfort — and it starts with a thorough exam.
Professional teeth cleanings
Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar accumulate in areas that are difficult to reach at home. Our dental hygienists provide a thorough professional cleaning, removing buildup, polishing your teeth, and reviewing personalized tips for your home care routine. We recommend cleanings every six months for most patients.
Dental X-rays
Digital X-rays allow Dr. Shmara to see what’s happening beneath the surface — detecting hidden cavities, bone loss, infections, and impacted teeth that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Our digital X-ray system uses significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays and produces instant, high-resolution images.
Dental fillings
When a cavity develops, prompt treatment with a dental filling stops the decay and restores the tooth’s function. Dr. Shmara offers tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, giving you a natural-looking result without the appearance of metal amalgam.
Dental crowns
A dental crown (or “cap”) restores a tooth that has been severely damaged, cracked, or weakened by decay. Crowns are custom-made to match your natural teeth and are commonly recommended after a root canal, a large filling, or when a tooth has broken. Dr. Shmara takes great care to ensure your crown fits comfortably and looks natural.
Root canal treatment
Root canals have an undeserved reputation. When performed by an experienced dentist like Dr. Shmara, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Root canal therapy removes infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, relieving pain and saving the tooth from extraction. Many of our patients are surprised by how straightforward the procedure is.
Gum disease treatment
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it often develops without obvious symptoms in its early stages. Dr. Shmara screens for gum disease at every checkup and provides treatment ranging from deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to more advanced periodontal care when needed.
Tooth extractions
When a tooth is too damaged to save, extraction may be the best option to protect the health of surrounding teeth and gums. Dr. Shmara performs routine and surgical extractions, including wisdom tooth removal, with a gentle technique that minimizes discomfort and recovery time.
Dental sealants
Dental sealants are a simple, effective preventive treatment — a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where cavities most often develop. Sealants are especially popular for children but can benefit adults as well, providing an extra layer of protection against decay.
Oral cancer screenings
As part of every comprehensive exam, Dr. Shmara performs a visual oral cancer screening. Early detection is critical — when caught early, oral cancer has a significantly higher survival rate. This quick, painless check is an important reason to maintain your regular dental visits.
General Dental Procedures
General Dental Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are key to a healthy smile. During your visit, Dr. Shmara will:
- Check for cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
- Inspect existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns, for signs of damage or wear.
- Identify potential issues, like impacted wisdom teeth or misalignment.
- Assess your overall oral health and hygiene practices.
These exams help us catch issues early before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems.
General Dental X-rays
Dental x-rays let us see what’s happening below the surface of your teeth and gums. They help detect:
- Hidden cavities
- Bone loss
- Infections
- Impacted teeth
X-rays are a safe and important part of your dental check-up.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone can’t reach. Our friendly dental hygienist will:
- Clean your teeth thoroughly
- Remove surface stains for a brighter smile
- Review flossing and brushing tips
We recommend teeth cleanings every six months, but we’ll customize your schedule based on your needs.
Root Canal Procedure
When a tooth becomes infected or severely decayed, a root canal may be necessary to save it. A root canal procedure involves removing the infected pulp within the tooth and sealing it to prevent further infection. This treatment can relieve pain and save the tooth, preventing the need for extraction.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown (or cap) is used to cover a damaged, cracked, or weakened tooth. Crowns restore your tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance, and are often recommended after a root canal or when a tooth is badly decayed. Learn more about dental crowns here.
Why choose Dr. Shmara as your Riverside general dentist?
Riverside has no shortage of dental offices. So what makes Dr. Shmara and our team the right choice for you and your family?
Comprehensive care under one roof
As both a general and cosmetic dentist, Dr. Shmara can handle everything from a routine cleaning to a full smile makeover — without referrals to outside specialists for most procedures. That means less running around and a consistent relationship with a dentist who knows your dental history.
A dentist patients actually look forward to seeing
Dental anxiety is real, and Dr. Shmara takes it seriously. Our team creates a calm, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable — not rushed, not judged, and never in unnecessary pain. We have patients who drive 25+ miles from across the Inland Empire specifically because of the experience they get here.
Honest, transparent treatment planning
Dr. Shmara takes the time to fully explain what he finds, what your options are, and exactly what treatment will cost — before any work begins. No surprises. No pressure. Just clear information so you can make the best decision for your health and budget.
Early morning and evening availability
We know Riverside is a busy city. Our office opens as early as 7:00 AM on Monday and Thursday, and we offer evening appointments on Tuesday until 6:00 PM — making it easier for working adults, parents, and students near UC Riverside to fit dental care into their day.
Centrally located in Riverside
Our office at 4959 Arlington Ave, Suite A is easily accessible from the 91 freeway and conveniently located near the Galleria at Tyler, making us a practical choice for patients throughout Riverside, Corona, Moreno Valley, and the broader Inland Empire.
Serving Riverside families & neighborhoods
Our Riverside dental office proudly serves patients from throughout the city and the surrounding region, including:
- Arlington, Arlington Heights, and the neighborhoods near our office on Arlington Ave
- Downtown Riverside, Wood Streets, and Magnolia Center
- Canyon Crest, Alessandro Heights, and Orangecrest
- Mission Grove, La Sierra, and Hunter Park
- The University District near UC Riverside
- Corona, Moreno Valley, Jurupa Valley, Ontario, and San Bernardino
If you’re looking for a trusted general dentist near you in Riverside, CA, we’d love to welcome you to our practice. Call (951) 352-2227 to schedule your first appointment or ask any questions about our services.
Frequently asked questions — general dentist in Riverside
He is always a referral for any of my friends and family wanting good professional work done. This handsome man is the MVP of Dental work, thanks again, enjoy your holiday.
Your office has such a nice atmosphere and your staff are very friendly and helpful.
Halina R
