Preventive Dentistry
Dental Prophylaxis (Cleaning)
Dental prophylaxis, or cleaning, is an important part of a
healthy oral care routine. Prophylaxis refers to an action
carried out for the prevention of a disease. Dental cleanings
are examples of preventative measures taken to inhibit the
development of tooth decay and gum disease and promote a healthy
smile.
Though most people brush their teeth at home on a
daily basis, lingering food particles can harbor bacteria that
form a sticky plaque on the surface of the teeth. Though
hardened plaque is not removable with regular brushing, it comes
off easily during a professional dental cleaning. Left
unaddressed, plaque can lead to serious oral complications such
as tooth decay and gum disease.
What to Expect During Dental Prophylaxis
Dental cleanings take only a few minutes and are performed
from the comfort of a dentist’s office. Several tools are used
to gently scrape away plaque and clean the surface of the gums
and teeth. Most cleanings begin with an ultrasonic cleaner and
water sprayer, which are used to dislodge plaque formations. Any
remaining plaque is scraped away using a metal hand scraper, and
a rotary brush is used to polish the newly cleaned teeth.
The American Dental Association recommends dental
prophylaxis on a routine basis. If you have not undergone
periodic dental cleanings, it is never too late to begin taking
better care of your teeth. Contact our office as soon as
possible to schedule your next visit and begin your path to
healthier teeth and gums.
To learn more, please visit our full website.
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