Dentalprophylaxisis a preventive dental procedure that goes beyond a simple cleaning.
Dental prophylaxis may also involveX-raysor other assessments depending on your oral health needs.
What Is Dental Prophylaxis?
Verywell / JR Bee
“Prophylaxis” is a medical term that simply means prevention.
Prophylaxis vs.
Deep Cleaning
Dental prophylaxis and deep cleaning are not quite the same.
Dental prophylaxis is a routine preventive cleaning for people with generally healthy gums.
It focuses on removing plaque and tartar from above thegumlineand keeping your mouth healthy before problems start.
Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a treatment forgum disease.
If there’s already a problem, your dental professional may recommend a deep cleaning instead.
In fact, by the age of 8, about 1 in 5 children have at least oneuntreated cavity.
Pediatric dentists focus on making dental visits comfortable and positive for kids who feel anxious or afraid.
Benefits
Dental prophylaxis offers both short-term and long-term benefits for your oral health.
Fluoridetreatments, like fluoride varnish, help protect kids teeth from cavities.
Studies show they work well, especially when started early.
Still, its a good idea to talk to your dentist to figure out whats best for your child.
It should be central to your everyday oral hygiene routine.
Flossing clears out plaque and food from between your teethplaces your toothbrush cant reach.
This helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss as you get older.
Potential Risks
Dental prophylaxis is safe for most people and offers clear health benefits.
This can happen when the gums are disturbed during a cleaning.
Its important to follow your providers advice if you fall into one of these categories.
Another minor risk is from dental X-rays, which may be taken during a cleaning visit.
It removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains while helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
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