Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning)

A dental prophylaxis is a cleaning procedure performed to thoroughly clean the teeth.  Prophylaxis is an important dental treatment that helps keep the gums and teeth healthy, and aids in halting the progression of periodontal disease and gingivitis.

Periodontal disease and gingivitis occur when bacteria from plaque colonize on the teeth and gingiva (gum) tissue, either above or below the gum line.  These bacteria colonies can cause serious inflammation and irritation in the gums which in turn can produce a chronic inflammatory response in the body.  As a result, the body may begin to systematically destroy gum and bone tissue, (destroying the bone that holds the teeth in the jaw), making the teeth become loose, and possibly 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:

  • Plaque and tartar removal – Tartar (calculus) and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can cause serious gum problems if left untreated.  Even using the best brushing and flossing homecare techniques, it is usually impossible to remove all bacteria and deposits from the  teeth and gums.   The experienced eye of a dentist or hygienst 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 remove unsightly stains from the teeth and return the smile to its bright white self.          
  •  Fresher breath – Periodontal disease is often signified by persistent bad breath (halitosis).  Bad breath   can be caused by poor oral hygiene, and and the build up of bactreial plaque, tartar, and other debris.  The removal of plaque, tartar and bacteria may improve breath and alleviates inflamation.

Identification of health issues – Many health problems first present themselves in the oral cavity.  Since prophylaxis involves a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity, Dr. Schmid is able to screen for oral cancer, evaluate the risk of periodontitis and often spot signs of medical problems like diabetes .  We may also make recommendations to improve home care.                                                                               

   What does prophylaxis treatment involve?

Prophylaxis may be performed at a new patient exam appointment or, if necessary, during a separate appointment.    The latter is particularly common where severe periodontal disease is suspected or has been diagnosed by the dentist.    Prophylaxis is generally performed in several stages:

  1. Supragingival cleaning – Dr. Schmid or a hygienist will thoroughly clean the teeth above the gum line and  in the subgingival sulcus with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and calculus.

  2. Polishing--to remove surface stain from the surfaces of the teeth.
  3.  Prophylaxis is recommended twice annually as a preventative measure, but may need to be performed every 3-4 months in patients who build plaque and calculous at a hight rate or those that have been diagnosed with periodontal disease.   
  4. If you have questions or concerns about prophylaxis or periodontal disease, please ask your dentist.