Professional Teeth Cleaning

Dental Prophylaxis

A dental prophylaxis is a cleaning treatment performed to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums.  Prophylaxis is an important dental treatment for stopping the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Professional teeth cleaning is an effective procedure in keeping the oral cavity in proper health and halting the progression of gum disease. The benefits include:

• Plaque removal. Tartar (also referred to as calculus) and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can result in 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 esthetics of a smile.  Prophylaxis is an effective treatment in ridding the teeth of these unsightly stains.
• Fresher breath. Bad breath (or halitosis) is generally indicative of advancing periodontal disease. A combination of rotting food particles (possibly below the gum line) and potential gangrene stemming from gum infection, results in bad breath.  The routine removal of plaque, calculus and bacteria at our facility can noticeably improve halitosis and reduce infection.

Dental prophylaxis can be performed at our office and by your general dentist on an alternating basis. It may be beneficial to have some of your cleanings done by Dr. Carlton, who is more familiar with the full scope of your periodontal disease. We generally recommend that prophylaxis be performed every three to four months for patients who have had a periodontal infection. Gum disease can be successfully treated and the patients can be kept healthy for a long period of time.