ORAL PROPHYLAXSIS/ DENTAL PROPHYLAXIS
WHAT IS DENTAL PROPHYLAXIS AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD IT BE DONE?
Dental prophylaxis is a professional kind of dental cleaning process done to remove tartar build-up that
normal washing and brushing can't reach. Irrespective of how careful you are with household dental
hygiene, you will need a professional appointment on a regular basis to make sure cavities and
periodontitis advancement can be stopped timely.
What is the purpose of dental prophylaxis?
Even if your at-home dental care routine is effective, there are numerous dental issues that are difficult to
detect or even avoid at home. Most dental problems are painless and have no visible symptoms. These
problems can be identified with a comprehensive check at your oral prophylaxis consultation. Your
dentist can check for deterioration and fissures and offer solutions to help you prevent painful and
expensive replacements in the future.
What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a thin, sticky layer containing a large number of germs. Plaque may only be removed by a
professional cleaning. The live microbes will keep developing if plaque is not cleaned, it hardens into
tartar, a tougher material. Cavities are caused by this, which is much more difficult to eliminate than
plaque. Tartar and sludge that form near the outer gum line must be eliminated with dental prophylaxis
before they produce significant problems with the gums, teeth, and bones.
What is the frequency of dental prophylactic treatment?
A professional dental treatment is only necessary twice per year if you maintain healthy teeth and gums at
home. In some situations, especially for those with excellent tooth enamel, you may be able to visit once
each year. Regular cleaning is suggested every 3 to 4 months if you exhibit evidence of periodontitis. This
is crucial to prevent significant concerns, such as tooth loss, from developing. Periodontitis cannot be
entirely corrected once it has developed. Gingivitis and its destructive effects might be slowed down with
a good cleaning schedule.
For a variety of factors, your dentist may assess that you are at significant risk of periodontal caries.
Smokers, individuals with periodontitis, or who have a lot of abscesses are all examples of this. More
regular checkups may be necessary if you are pregnant, overweight, or have a higher risk of infection.
Hence it is critical to inform your dentist of any medical issues that may alter your prophylaxis plan.
What are the advantages of cleaning services?
- Cleanings have numerous advantages, including:
- Plaque removal
- Getting rid of Tartar
- Teeth that are whiter and shinier
- Better smelling breath
- A proactive approach to dental and periodontal health management
- Getting rid of stains
When it comes to cleaning appointments, here’s what to expect.
Scaling will be used during your professional cleaning to eliminate surface stains. You’ll also get a skilled
sanding to get rid of stains that mouthwash won’t get rid of. A full dental examination will also be
performed on you, which will include the following:
- Health Screening: Your cheeks, chin, mouth, throat, oesophagus, and jaws will be examined for any
unusual disorders, such as carcinoma. - Gum Assessment: Haemorrhage, edema, inflammation of the gums, and poor smell are all indications of
chronic periodontitis. - Examining the Teeth: your dentist will look for cavities on all enamel surfaces, and also the status of
any curative treatment, including inlays and caps. - X-rays: X-rays may be taken in some circumstances to look for indicators of more serious problems.
- Guidelines for Oral Care: After your inspection and treatment, your dentist will offer suggestions to
assist you improve your dental health at home. This may entail cleaning more frequently or drawing
closer attention to places where tartar build-up is more likely. If you appear to be scrubbing too
forcefully, the dentist may offer cleaning advice.
Therefore, it is important to get the teeth checked from time to time and pay heed to the advice of the
dentist. While it may seem to us that our teeth are fine, that may not be the case when looked at more
closely. Dental prophylaxis is essential to oral hygiene and needs to be done at least once a year.