Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
A dental prophylaxis is a cleaning treatment performed to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums. Prophylaxis treatment effectively keeps your mouth healthy and helps stop the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
The benefits include:
- Plaque removal. Tartar (also referred to as calculus) and plaque buildup above and below the gum line can cause serious periodontal problems. Unfortunately, even with a proper home brushing and flossing routine, it can be impossible to remove all debris, bacteria, and deposits from gum pockets. The experienced eye of a dentist or hygienist using specialized dental equipment is necessary to catch potentially damaging buildup.
- A healthier looking smile. Stained and yellowed teeth can dramatically decrease the aesthetics of a smile. Prophylaxis helps rid the teeth of these unsightly stains.
- Fresher breath. Bad breath (or halitosis) generally indicates advancing periodontal disease. A combination of rotting food particles (possibly below the gum line) and potential gangrene stemming from gum infection causes bad breath. The routine removal of plaque, calculus, and bacteria at our facility can noticeably improve halitosis and reduce infection.
We can perform prophylaxis at our office. We recommend scheduling prophylaxis twice annually as a preventative measure, but it should be completed every 3-4 months for periodontitis sufferers. It should be noted that gum disease cannot be completely reversed, but prophylaxis is one of the tools Dr. Mike and Dr. Janet can use to effectively halt its progression.