Protecting Oral Health with Prophylaxis Cleaning
Maintaining a clean oral health environment is vital to protecting the health and strength of the teeth and gums. While Dr. John P. Goodman offers a full range of restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, one of the primary goals at our cosmetic dentistry practice is to prevent oral health problems through the practice of thorough general dentistry care. The foundation of good oral health is the application of proper oral cleaning techniques. At-home care is vital to good oral health, but all patients can benefit from a professional dental cleaning at least twice yearly. Dr. Goodman offers his Kansas City patients prophylaxis cleanings that remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums in order to prevent problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
What’s Involved in a Prophylaxis Cleaning?
Prophylaxis is a deep dental cleaning that is recommended at least twice a year. However, for those patients who are prone to gingivitis or gum disease, it is recommended that these cleanings be scheduled once every three to four months. Prophylaxis cleanings allow Dr. Goodman to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums in order to prevent serious dental problems, especially gum disease. The following procedures are usually involved in a prophylaxis cleaning:
- X-rays and a visual examination of the teeth: A prophylaxis cleaning will often begin with x-rays and a visual examination of the teeth and gums. This allows Dr. Goodman to monitor bone density, measure the depth of gum pockets, and diagnose any conditions that may require additional monitoring or treatment.
- Surface cleaning: Using dental instruments, Dr. Goodman can remove bacteria, plaque, and/or tartar from the surface of the teeth and the area above the gum line. These tools allow Dr. Goodman to clean the teeth more thoroughly than tooth brushing and flossing that is performed at home.
- Deep cleaning: A prophylaxis cleaning may also involve a deep cleaning that allows Dr. Goodman to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line. If this is necessary, the patient may be numbed using local anesthesia in order to maintain patient comfort.
- Application of medication: In cases where the presence of bacteria is significant, a prophylaxis cleaning may involve the application of an anti-bacterial medication that ensures that all unhealthy bacteria are removed from the teeth and gums.
Benefits of Prophylaxis Cleanings
Prophylaxis cleanings allow patients to maintain a clean and healthy oral environment. As a result, patients who undergo regular prophylaxis cleanings will likely benefit from healthy and strong teeth and gums, an attractive smile that is less likely to become discolored or stained, and fresher breath. Additionally, regular prophylaxis cleanings allow Dr. Goodman to continually monitor oral health. This allows patients to benefit from the early detection and treatment of any oral health problems, such as tooth decay. Our full range of restorative dentistry procedures can repair damage and decay to restore strength, function, and beauty to the teeth.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. John P. Goodman helps patients maintain good oral health through the practice of professional general dentistry care. However, when restorative or cosmetic problems are present, Dr. Goodman offers a full range of treatments to help patients restore a healthy and beautiful smile. To learn more about the services we have available, schedule an appointment with Dr. Goodman at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!