Dental Cleanings

Prophylaxis–

A routine dental cleaning or prophylaxis is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. It involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the tooth structures. This procedure is for patients that do not have significant subgingival (under the gums) deposits or periodontal pocketing. The typical prophy patient comes every six months, exhibits excellent home care and has healthy gingival tissues.

Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

Removal of Plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food, debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease.

Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning–

This procedure is for patients who have completed periodontal treatment (surgical and/or non-surgical-scaling and rootplaning) and includes removal of the bacterial flora from the pocket areas, scaling and polishing of the teeth, and periodontal evaluation. Typically, an interval of three-four months between appointments is recommended.

A preventive program is a cooperative effort by the patient, dentist and dental staff to preserve the natural dentition and supporting structures by preventing the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases and conditions.

Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet. it is continued in the dental office by the efforts of your dentist and dental hygienist to promote, restore, and maintain your oral health.