Dental Prophylaxis

Dental Cleaning in Santa Clara

Bacteria from plaque can accumulate and colonize on the gum tissue over time which can cause severe oral health and hygiene issues. These bacteria can cause serious inflammation, which produces chronic inflammatory symptoms in the patient’s body. This leads to body starting to destroy gum tissue, making the teeth move, losing its grip or falling out of the mouth. 

To prevent such issues, dental prophylaxis is performed.

What is Dental Prophylaxis?

Dental prophylaxis is the thorough cleaning of your teeth to prevent the progression of periodontal disease and gingivitis. It is a preventive measure and can be treated as part of your dental check-up.

What is the overall procedure for prophylaxis?

Prophylaxis can be either performed as a routine part of your check-up or can be undertaken as a standalone treatment in cases where severe periodontal issues are suspected. There are several stages that the whole process involves. These include:

Supragingival cleaning: Plaque and calculus are removed from above the gum area using scaling tools.

Subgingival cleaning: Calculus is removed from the gum pockets and below the gum line. This is the most important step for patients suffering from periodontal problems.

Root planing: Here, the tooth roots are smoothed to remove any remaining bacteria.

Medication: An antibiotic or antimicrobial cream is often placed in the gum pockets to promote fast and healthy healing in the pockets and help ease discomfort.

What are the advantages of Dental Prophylaxis?

Identification of Health Issues: Many health problems are easily diagnosable by just studying your oral health. Issues like cancer, kidney problems, diabetes etc, present themselves to dentists first. Cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly helps keep an eye out for such issues.

Fresher Breath: Bad Breath is often the first symptom of periodontal disease. Prophylaxis not only prevents/cures these infections, it also makes your breath fresher.

Aesthetics: As your teeth and gums are completely cleaned during this procedure, they look brand new and extremely attractive.

If you are considering a dental prophylaxis treatment, Maria Balce, D.D.S.in Santa Clara, California is the best place to go for an initial assessment. Give us a call at (626) 336-7567 to book an appointment.