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Dental Cleanings: Prophylaxis
and Periodontal Health
The dental profession refers to the dental cleaning appointment
as a dental prophylaxis, or prophy. It's most significant functions are prevention
of dental disease and patient education. It is likely the most important and valuable
visit a patient may ever make to the dentist.
The routine dental cleaning is anything but routine, and should include:
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Personal oral hygiene evaluation, home care review and recommendations. |
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Toothbrushing and flossing instructions. |
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Supra gingival (above the gum) scaling to remove plaque and tartar
from all visible tooth surfaces. |
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Debridement of tartar beneath the gum, as conditions warrant. |
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Topical fluoride treatment to the age of thirteen. |
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Polishing the teeth. |
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Nutrition assessment, if needed |
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Periodontal charting, and scheduling of additional periodontal care
as indicated. |
The dental prophylaxis is the cornerstone for a lifetime of dental health.
Ultrasonic and Hand Scaling
Plaque is the colonization of natural oral bacteria on food debris that remains on
the surface and in the crevices of the teeth and gums. Combining with minerals in
the saliva, it ultimately forms a hard, rough sediment known as dental tartar or
calculus which attracts further plaque buildup. Calculus must be removed by a dental
professional for the prevention of periodontal disease.
Removal of calculus may be performed by a licensed dental hygienist or dentist, either
by manual scaling of the teeth, or with an ultrasonic device. The choice of technique
is a personal preference by the hygienist or wishes of the patient. Most states permit
trained dental hygienists to administer local anesthetic and nitrous oxide (laughing
gas), often necessary for deep periodontal scaling and root planing.
Polishing
The dental prophylaxis is refined by a final polishing of the teeth to remove stain
and create a sensation of fresh breath and a clean mouth It may be accomplished by
spraying high pressured water mixed with baking soda paste onto the surface of the
teeth (prophy jet polishing), or a rubber cup and polishing paste. Many states permit
a certified dental assistant to polish teeth with a rubber cup and to apply fluoride
for children.
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Pediatric Dentistry
The dental prophylaxis is especially important for children
to establish good oral hygiene practice and to appreciate the importance of dental
health. Easy dental prophy appointments help create self esteem and will lessen anxiety
should dental restorative care become necessary in the future.
The regular application of topical fluoride, early detection of orthodontic (bite)
problems, and an evaluation for pit and fissure sealants are part of preventive dental
health.
PARENTS Frequently Asked Questions >> |
