Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning)

A dental prophylaxis is a cleaning procedure performed to thoroughly clean the teeth twice a year. Prophylaxis is an important dental treatment for halting the progression of gingivitis which can lead to the development of periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease and gingivitis occur when bacteria from plaque colonize on the gingival (gum) tissue, either above or below the gum line. These bacteria colonies cause serious inflammation and irritation which in turn produce a chronic inflammatory response in the body. As a result, the body begins to systematically destroy gum and bone tissue, making the teeth shift, become unstable, or completely fall out. The pockets between the gums and teeth become deeper and house more bacteria which may travel via the bloodstream and infect other parts of the body.

Reasons for prophylaxis/teeth cleaning

Prophylaxis is an excellent procedure to help keep the oral cavity in good health and also halt the progression of gum disease.

Here are some of the benefits of prophylaxis:

Tartar removal – Tartar (calculus) and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can cause serious periodontal problems if left untreated. Even using the best brushing and flossing homecare techniques, it can be impossible to remove debris, bacteria and deposits from gum pockets. The experienced eye of a dentist using specialized dental equipment is needed in order to spot and treat problems such as tartar and plaque buildup.
Aesthetics – It’s hard to feel confident about a smile marred by yellowing, stained teeth. Prophylaxis can rid the teeth of unsightly stains and return the smile to its former glory.
Fresher breath – Periodontal disease is often signified by persistent bad breath (halitosis). Bad breath is generally caused by a combination of rotting food particles below the gum line, possible gangrene stemming from gum infection, and periodontal problems. The removal of plaque, calculus and bacteria noticeably improves breath and alleviates irritation.

Identification of health issues – Many health problems first present themselves to the dentist. Since prophylaxis is often proceeded by a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity, the dentist is able to screen for oral cancer, evaluate the risk of periodontitis and often spot signs of medical problems like diabetes and kidney problems. Recommendations can also be provided for altering the home care regimen.

If you have questions or concerns about prophylaxis or* periodontal disease, please ask your dentist.*

Testimonials

To Drs/ Staff at N.M.F.D.

Somehow just reimbursing you for services rendered seems inadequate, at best. Thank you so very much for all the special care you give to make my visits comfortable to me, this is simply priceless.

From the moment I call through the moment I leave the clinic- I feel welcome and important. I so appreciate modern technology and your efforts to keep procedures pain-free. It is also refreshing to see an office that is organized, prompt, and clean, and obviously has employees that enjoy their work and their co-workers.

C. Olson St. Peter

I put off going to the dentist for many years because of the pain of just touching them.

When I was a child the dentist slapped me 'cause I was crying 'cause it hurt. He said, "it don't hurt that bad", but he did not have my mouth. When I was 23 I got a full upper plate (denture) and a partial on the bottom and never went back until I needed an anchor tooth removed. I had the oral surgeon do it 'cause they would put me to sleep.

15 years later I heard about relaxed dentistry from the radio and a couple of kids at work. I knew I needed to have things done and paid for before I retired, so I made the appointment and I had a new full upper and new partial. No Pain!. They used the "Wand" for Novocain so if there is pain you do not even know it. I even has a root canal and don't remember anything. It was Great!!

H. Hager Mankato