Teeth Cleaning

A routine healthy teeth cleaning, also known as a dental prophylaxis, is an important preventive dental treatment for stopping the progression of gingivitis and preventing periodontal disease and keeps the gums in good health

The benefits of professional teeth cleaning include:

• Plaque removal — Tartar and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can result in serious periodontal problems if not removed. Unfortunately, even with a proper at-home brushing and flossing routine, it can be impossible to remove all debris, bacteria, and deposits from gum pockets. The experienced eye of a dental hygienist using specialized equipment is necessary to catch damaging buildup.
• A healthier looking smile — Stained and yellowed teeth dramatically decreases the aesthetics of a smile. Prophylaxis is an effective treatment in ridding the teeth of unsightly stains.
• Fresher breath — Bad breath, also know as halitosis, is generally indicative of advancing periodontal disease. A combination of rotting food particles and potential gangrene stemming from gum infection, results in bad breath. The routine removal of plaque, calculus, and bacteria at our office can noticeably improve halitosis and reduce the risk of infection.

We recommend that prophylaxis be performed twice annually as a preventative measure, but should be completed every 3-4 months for patients who have gum disease. It should be noted that gum disease cannot be completely reversed, but routine professoional dental cleanings is one of the tools Dr. Bichon and Dr. Osborne and our hygienists use to effectively halt its progression.