Why do Pleasantville Periodontists Heavily Recommend Prophylaxis?
Preventative care is one of the most crucial aspects of overall health management. It has grounds in physical as well as mental health care. After all, the logic of such care is simple. If you’re able to identify a problem, before it becomes a problem, you can intervene in good time! This intervention would usually be much less taxing than the one required to deal with a fully-fledged ailment!
The philosophy of preventative care is also present in areas of oral health. Specifically, experts in periodontics in Pleasantville, NY, heavily recommend getting Prophylaxis treatment. This procedure helps maintain optimal oral health and avoid more serious dental issues via a thorough and involved cleaning procedure. Here’s how it works…
Benefits of Prophylaxis
Tartar Removal
Tartar, also known as calculus, which accumulates on the teeth and below the gum line. It forms when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, hardens and becomes more resistant to daily brushing and flossing. This hardened deposit can lead to gum disease and cavities if not properly addressed. During a prophylaxis treatment, dental professionals use specialized instruments to carefully remove tartar from both visible surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
Aesthetic Improvements
Prophylaxis not only promotes oral health but also enhances the appearance of your smile. The removal of tartar and plaque improves the brightness and cleanliness of your teeth, leading to a more polished and attractive smile. Additionally, professional cleaning can address surface stains, resulting in a noticeable improvement in the color of your teeth.
Fresher Breath
Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be a sign of underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or an accumulation of plaque and tartar. Prophylaxis helps combat bad breath by thoroughly cleaning the teeth and gums and removing bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odors. The removal of plaque and tartar also prevents the buildup of harmful substances that can cause halitosis.
Identifying Health Issues
During a prophylaxis appointment, dental professionals conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, which can help identify potential health issues early. They look for signs of gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems that may not be immediately apparent. Early detection of these issues allows for timely intervention and treatment, preventing more severe conditions from developing.
How Prophylaxis Is Administered?
Supragingival Cleaning
Supragingival cleaning involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth above the gumline. This step is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria that can lead to gum disease.
Subgingival Cleaning
Subgingival cleaning targets the areas below the gumline where tartar and plaque can accumulate, contributing to periodontal disease. This deep cleaning process involves the careful removal of deposits from the roots of the teeth within the gum pockets.
Root Planing
Root planing is a procedure performed to smooth and clean the root surfaces of the teeth, removing rough areas that can harbor bacteria. This process helps the gums reattach to the teeth and promotes the healing of gum tissue.
Medication Via Antibiotic Cream in Gum Pockets
In some cases, antibiotic creams or gels may be applied directly to the gum pockets during prophylaxis to combat bacterial infections. These medications help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the affected gum tissues.
X-Ray and Examination
As part of the prophylaxis appointment, dental professionals may use X-rays to assess the health of the teeth and supporting structures. X-rays provide valuable insights into the presence of hidden issues, such as bone loss or deep-seated infections.
It is best to visit a periodontist expert at least twice a year. This ensures that your oral health is receiving consistent attention from a professional. Additionally, this is the perfect time duration to catch any new concerns! So don’t wait, book an appointment with your local dental expert today!
