Prophylaxis
A dental prophylaxis is a cleaning treatment performed to thoroughly clean the teeth in a
diseased free patient. Prophylaxis is an important dental treatment for stopping the
progression of gingivitis.
Sometimes, patients become upset when they are told by their insurance company that
they get two “Free Cleanings” per year; however, patients are told by their hygienist or
dentist that they cannot have a “free cleaning” (or free Prophylaxis) because their gums
are not healthy. This can often causes some hard feelings between the patient and the
dentist/ dental practice. It is not because the dental hygienist is not willing to perform a
“cleaning”, it is often because patient suffers from years of chronic periodontal disease
without being properly informed by their previous dental office. Prophylaxis is an
effective procedure in keeping the oral cavity in proper health and halting the
progression of gum disease, provided that the patient is disease free!
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.
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.
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.
Prophylaxis can be performed at our office. We recommend that prophylaxis be
performed twice annually as a preventative measure, but should be completed every 3-
4 months for periodontitis sufferers (Periodontal Maintenance). It should be noted that
gum disease cannot be completely reversed, but prophylaxis is one of the tools Dr.
Wang and the hygienist can use to effectively halt its progression.