The benefits of a healthy mouth cleaning include tartar and plaque buildup removal, fresher breath, and improved esthetics such as a whiter smile. A healthy mouth cleaning is known as dental prophylaxis. This treatment is preventive and not indicated for those with active gum disease (moderate to severe gingivitis or periodontitis). Prevention is the key to keeping gum disease or tooth decay from developing. Prophylaxis is recommended a minimum of twice yearly or every six months. The latest research shows that proper prophylaxis is recommended every three months.
During your healthy mouth dental cleaning at Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry in Dunedin, FL, Dr. Lepore or Dr. Dougherty will thoroughly examine your mouth, where they will be able to screen for systemic conditions and detect tooth decay early on.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation of your gum tissue. Common signs of gingivitis are redness, swelling, or bleeding on your gum tissue. Gingivitis is preventable and curable, whereas advanced periodontal disease is not curable. You can prevent gingivitis by:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Daily flossingÂ
- Regular dental checkups (healthy mouth cleaning)
What You Can Expect During A Healthy Mouth Cleaning
You can expect a thorough dental examination, periodontal probing (measuring gum tissue health), thorough cleaning to remove tartar and plaque, and dental x-rays to check for tooth decay and infections.
Routine Home Care Is Your Key To Long-Term Oral Health
While regular professional cleanings are essential, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is just as important to keep your smile healthy and prevent issues like gum disease and tooth decay.
What Does Routine Home Care Include?
- Brushing twice a day: Use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice daily, preferably in the morning and before bed, to remove plaque and prevent cavities.
- Daily flossing: Flossing helps to clean between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach, removing food particles and plaque to prevent gum disease.
- Use mouthwash: A good mouthwash can reduce plaque buildup, freshen your breath, and provide additional protection against tooth decay.
- Eat a balanced diet: Limiting sugary snacks and drinks and consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables helps protect your teeth and gums from decay and inflammation.
- Replace your toothbrush regularly: Replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head if you’re using an electric brush) every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Routine home care is the foundation of your oral health and an essential complement to your in-office treatments at Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry. By taking proactive steps at home, you’ll be ensuring your teeth and gums stay in top condition between professional cleanings.
Prophy Vs. Scaling & Root Planing
The difference between a prophy and scaling and root planing is healthy gum tissue versus diseased gum tissue and bone loss. Prophylaxis cleans tartar and plaque from above the gum line, whereas scaling and root planing removes the harmful bacteria below the gum line.
