Preventive Services
Child and Adult Prophy "Cleanings"– A dental prophylaxis removes plaque, debris and stain that adhere to tooth surfaces. Using hand instruments and a prophy angle, surfaces above the gumline are smoothed and polished; this makes it difficult for plaque to adhere to teeth and harden into calculus. Accumulations of plaque and calculus harbor bacteria that release toxins capable of damaging tooth structure, infecting gingival tissues and may lead to dental decay and periodontal disease. Regular dental cleanings are a vital part of preserving a patient's existing oral and systemic health.
Scaling and Root Planing– Scaling and Root Planing is often referred to as a "deep cleaning". Scaling and Root Planing is required when calculus has deposited below the gumline. Calculus harbors infectious bacteria capable of destroying the bone supporting your teeth- resulting in tooth loss. Scaling and Root Planing requires two sessions. Anesthetic is used to make the patient comfortable while allowing the hygienist to thoroughly clean to the base of deep periodontal pockets. This procedure helps restore a patient to good oral health. Then, a recare schedule will be customized according to your specific periodontal needs.
Periodontal Maintenance– Usually following Scaling and Root Planing, Periodontal Maintenance appointments are sometimes required to preserve healthy oral conditions. These appointments allow hygienists to clean below the gumline and perform a detailed periodontal evaluation, measuring bone support around each tooth. Keeping detailed records is important to monitor any changes in your oral health and- if necessary- make referrals to a specialist.
In-Office Fluoride Treatments– Fluoride is an element naturally found in nature. The benefits of fluoride have been extensively researched and consistently proven safe. Tooth enamel is constantly under attack by plaque and the foods we eat, causing dental decay and sensitivity. Fluoride applications help remineralize tooth structure that has been compromised- reducing decay and sensitivity.
Sealants-
Tooth Whitening– "Whitening" is any process that will make teeth appear whiter. This can be achieved in two ways. A product can bleach the tooth, which means that it actually changes the natural tooth color. Bleaching products contain peroxide(s) that help remove deep (intrinsic) and surface (extrinsic) stains. By contrast, non-bleaching whitening products contain agents that work by physical or chemical action to help remove surface stains only.
