Plaque and bacteria pose significant threats to oral health, often resulting in a range of dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and premature tooth loss. Oral prophylaxis offered by the preventive dentist in Torrance, CA, targets the removal of plaque and bacteria, serving to impede the advancement of gingivitis to periodontitis.
Read this informative blog to understand the importance of oral prophylaxis in maintaining optimal health and wellness.
Oral prophylaxis- A detailed guide
Oral prophylaxis or teeth cleaning is a routine dental procedure that aims to keep plaque and bacteria at bay. It involves a thorough cleaning of the plaque and bacteria from above and below the gum line.
Prophylaxis is an excellent procedure to get rid of dental plaque and bacteria. It is performed for the following reasons:
To remove tartar
- Tartar (calculus) is the hardened version of plaque that gets deposited above and below the gum line.
- If left untreated, it can lead to periodontal diseases.
- Regular brushing and flossing do not reach the plaque in deeper layers, thus worsening the condition.
- Prophylaxis uses special equipment that can effectively remove plaque and tartar.
For cosmetic concerns
- Prophylaxis can help get rid of unsightly stains and teeth discoloration to restore your smile.
To manage halitosis
- Periodontal diseases are most often accompanied by halitosis (bad breath) due to the rotting of the food particles subgingivally (below the gum line).
- Teeth cleaning helps to get rid of bad breath by eliminating plaque and bacteria.
Aids in detecting other oral problems
- It is believed that most often, health problems first present themselves in the oral cavity.
- Through thorough dental examination and cleaning, dentists can detect several health issues, such as diabetes and kidney problems.
- Dentists can detect early signs of oral cancer.
The comprehensive steps involved in oral prophylaxis
- Supragingival cleaning: Involves plaque removal from above the gum line
- Subgingival cleaning: Plaque removal from the gum pockets and beneath the gum line.
- Root planing: Involves smoothening of the roots to eliminate residual bacteria.
- Antibiotic medications: Antibiotic or antimicrobial cream is placed in the gum pockets to promote healing.
- X-ray and examination: A thorough dental exam and routine X-rays can help evaluate the amount of gum and bone loss in periodontal disease patients. It also identifies areas that require special attention in the future.
Oral prophylaxis, or teeth cleanings, serve as a valuable method for removing plaque and bacteria, thereby enhancing oral health and wellness. These procedures also aid in revitalizing the appearance of your smile.
