An oral prophylaxis (dental cleaning) is a treatment to thoroughly clean teeth and gums. Dental cleanings are a necessary dental treatment for preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Prophylaxis is an effective procedure for keeping the oral cavity in proper health and halting the progression of gum disease.
The Benefits of Periodic Dental Cleanings Include:
- Plaque removal. Tartar (also called 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, removing all debris, bacteria, and deposits from gum pockets can be impossible. The experienced eye of a dentist or dental hygienist using specialized equipment is necessary to catch potentially damaging buildup.
- A healthier-looking smile. Stained and yellowed teeth can dramatically decrease the esthetics of a smile. Dental cleanings are an effective treatment in ridding the teeth of these unsightly stains.
- Fresher breath. Bad breath (or halitosis) generally indicates 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 Cleanings can be performed at our dental offices. We recommend that prophylaxis be performed twice annually as a preventative measure but should be completed every 3-4 months. This is for periodontitis sufferers to be avoided. We should note that gum disease cannot be completely reversed. Still, prophylaxis is one of the tools we use to halt its progression effectively.
If you want to gain a great smile now, request an appointment today!
Our Fluoride Treatment
Dental decay is a common condition all over the world. One way to help prevent cavities from occurring is through the use of fluoride.
Fluoride helps harden the tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to tooth decay. A small cavity can be stopped and even reversed by the remineralization process enhanced by fluoride.
Topical Fluorides
Even though the benefits of fluoride are maximized before the teeth erupt (come in), fluoride is still very beneficial for children and adults after the teeth have fully erupted. Topical fluorides are applied directly to the tooth structure to delay or slow down tooth decay.
Children Up to Age 3
For children ages 3 and under, we typically use a topical fluoride (often referred to in our office as varnish) applied with a brush. Because very young children may have difficulty not swallowing a rinse-type fluoride, our hygienists will carefully brush it. We ensure that none is swallowed when performing a dental cleaning.
Adults and Children Ages 4 & Up
For older children and adults, we use a rinse-type fluoride treatment that is swished in the mouth for a brief period and then discharged — not swallowed.
Dental Cleanings in Houston
We are happy to provide you with a dental checkup that will include a dental cleaning in the Houston area. We are also located in Baytown and Mont Belvieu for anyone looking for a dental cleaning there. If you are interested, please schedule an appointment today or call us! We will be happy to answer any questions on the phone!