What Is a Prophylaxis?
At High Street Dentistry, we believe that teeth should last a lifetime and are proud to offer quality preventive services, including dental prophylaxis. The procedure significantly reduces the risk of dental disease for long-term healthy smiles. Learn more about dental prophylaxis and its role in enhancing your oral health.
What Is Dental Prophylaxis?
Plaque bacteria on and below the gum line, if not removed, can cause inflammation and irritation, which can destroy the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place. Moreover, the pockets between the gums and teeth deepen and house more bacteria, which can potentially travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, putting your health at risk.
A dental prophylaxis is a preventive procedure we perform to thoroughly clean your teeth. It is highly effective in halting the destructive progress of gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Moreover, removing plaque and tartar will help lower your risk of developing tooth decay and cavities.
What More Can Dental Prophylaxis Do for You?
Not only does dental prophylaxis keep your oral cavity in the best of health, but it also serves an aesthetic purpose. During your procedure, we’ll rid your teeth of unsightly surface stains to restore your white, confident smile. Moreover, removing food debris under the gum line and managing gum disease helps combat bad breath (halitosis).
What Does Dental Prophylaxis Involve?
Dental prophylaxis starts with scaling, during which our dental hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line. Cleaning below the gum line is the most essential component of a dental prophylaxis procedure because, even with daily brushing and flossing, it can be quite challenging to keep those hard-to-reach areas clean and healthy.
Another important step in your prophylaxis appointment is polishing, which smoothes out your teeth and removes rough spots that attract harmful bacteria. Scaling and polishing lower your risk of dental decay and periodontal disease.
How Often Do You Require Dental Prophylaxis?
Most patients require dental prophylaxis between six months and two years, depending on their unique needs and oral health history. If you suspect you have gum disease, or if you just want to keep your smile as healthy as possible, talk to one of our team members at High Street Dentistry about what a prophylaxis treatment can do for you.
Quality Preventive Dentistry Services Near Me
Contact High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, to learn more about dental prophylaxis and its role in maintaining your oral health. Our team is committed to providing outstanding preventive services for long term healthy smiles. You can count on us for gentle care that exceeds your expectations. Call us and schedule your appointment today!