Overview
Oral Prophylaxis or simply known as dental cleaning is a preventive procedure that is used to remove dental plaque, calcular deposits and other irritants in the oral cavity. Oral prophylaxis is a major part of oral health care regimen necessary to prevent tooth decay to develop into dental diseases.
This preventive measure, if done regularly, will save your teeth from the inconvenience from possible grinding whenever it comes to a point that needs fillings or a dental crown to be installed on, or even keeps your teeth from being pulled or extracted in the worst scenario that they can no longer be saved. Most importantly, oral prophylaxis will save you from incurring costly dental treatments and the disabilities associated with missing teeth and gum diseases.
It is a dental checkup, anyway.
Oral prophylaxis is more than just a dental cleaning. In the course of the procedure, several measures are used to rule out any dental abnormalities in the oral cavity as well as to monitor and improve the health of your teeth. Your dental team will take X-rays of your teeth structures for the dentist to examine the status and condition of your teeth. If you have weak bone structure that holds your teeth, your dentist may recommend some vitamins for you to take or diet plan that strengthen your bones. Should there be any malocculusion or teeth misalignment seen from the result of your x-ray, depending on its severity, you may also be recommended to undergo orthodontics therapy to correct the misalignment.
The major component of oral prophylaxis procedure is the removal of calcular deposits from your teeth with an ultrasonic scaler or scaling and root planing. Your dentist will discuss with you the status of your oral health condition as determined by the steps being done in oral prophylaxis procedure and may design a treatment plan, if necessary, specifically to address whatever condition you have at the moment, all with an objectives for you to have a healthy teeth and a gleaming smile.
As Preventive Measure
Oral prophylaxis is essential not only for maintaining your teeth, but is also used to treat the early stages of gum disease. Your dentist uses special tools to remove dental tartar, which you can’t do on your own. Without regular dental visits, dental tartar can build up and start to form under the gum line. This eventually can lead to periodontal disease, which left untreated, may cause tooth loss. Advanced stages of gum disease may allow bacteria from the mouth to enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body. Studies have shown that gum disease has actually been linked to heart disease and stroke!
Here are other reasons to see your dentist for prophylaxis on a regular basis:
Dental Education — Your hygienist can look for teeth that have a larger buildup of dental tartar and show you areas that need improvement in your oral hygiene regimen.
Cosmetic Purposes — Prophylaxis helps remove some stains from your teeth.
Health Reasons — During the procedure, dentists often screen for oral cancer. As oral health is an integral part of overall health and wellbeing, not only can oral problems affect your health, but symptoms of some physical ailments are found in the mouth. Many dentists are trained to look for signs of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, eating disorders like bulimia nervosa, HIV or AIDS, and many other conditions.
Children’s Dental Health — Children are extremely vulnerable to dental problems, and have special needs when it comes to their teeth. Fluoride or dental sealants are often applied during exams to strengthen teeth and help prevent tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends for children to have their first dental appointment by the age of one. Children who suffer from dental anxiety and fears can be taken to a pediatric dentist for their appointments.
What to Expect
There are no ifs, ands or buts about it: If you have teeth, you need oral prophylaxis. It is recommended that most patients receive prophylaxis at a dental office at least every six months, and patients with periodontal disease should have it every three to four months or as prescribed by the dentist. Like any dental procedure, there are some things to consider before your oral prophylaxis and things to expect during the procedure:
1. You may experience some sensitivity following prophylaxis. Plaque and tartar form a shield over teeth, and their removal will expose teeth to sensitive elements for a short time. Proper brushing and flossing will limit plaque and tartar from forming on teeth, making your dental visits a little easier.
2. For patients with heart conditions, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to be taken prior to the dental cleaning. Tell your dentist about your medical history, allergies and prescription medications you are taking prior to your first appointment. Be sure to update your medical records as needed.
3. Most dental plans cover two dental cleanings a year, but be sure you check your dental insurance coverage before accepting treatment. If you’re hesitating to make an appointment because you’re paying out-of-pocket, consider this: Prophylaxis is a preventive measure that can help prevent tooth decay and other dental problems. Without it, many dental conditions will go unnoticed and grow out of control. A dental exam twice a year can reduce the need for major dental treatments at a much greater expense down the line.
Oral prophylaxis is probably one of the greatest investments you can make for your health.
