WHAT IS PROPHYLAXIS?

Taking care of the smile to ensure it stays healthy and beautiful for life requires a patient to routinely have their teeth cleaned and examined by a dental professional. Visits to the dentist every six months are encouraged by Dr. Darren Gonzalez in Santa Rosa, California. These appointments, sometimes referred to as recall visits, should be a standing appointment with the dentist to regularly evaluate one’s oral health. At the same time, preventative services may be completed, including prophylaxis.

What is prophylaxis, and why is it important?

A dental prophylaxis is a special cleaning procedure performed by the dental hygienist to clean the teeth and gums. Prophylaxis is essential in not only keeping the smile beautiful and clean, but in halting the progression of conditions such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. These cleanings also provide the dental team the opportunity to evaluate one’s oral health and look for signs of problems, including dental decay.

Why do we need regular teeth cleanings?

The prophylaxis procedure is great for keeping the smile healthy while avoiding the progression of certain conditions that can cause irreversible damage to the teeth and gums. There are many reasons why a routine prophylaxis is recommended. The treatment can help with:

Tartar removal – a build of tartar, or “calculus,” and plaque along and under the gum line can become problematic. When this occurs, it contributes to the development of periodontal problems. While brushing and flossing can help, it can be impossible for patients to remove any bacteria and deposits that may form in the pockets, which is where a professional cleaning can help.

Fresher breath – patients with the early and late stages of periodontal disease will often deal with halitosis, or bad breath. Cleaning of the teeth and treatment of infection can improve one’s breath and combat this common problem.

Aesthetics – everyone loves a beautiful, healthy-looking smile, which can be achieved with a thorough prophylaxis at the dental office!

Request an appointment with Dr. Darren Gonzalez

If you are in need of a dental cleaning and are interested in working with a new dentist and team in the area of Santa Rosa, CA, we welcome you to book your initial evaluation and appointment with our team by calling (707) 542-1532. We are committed to providing patients in the community with solutions for their smiles, including preventative care. Our office is conveniently located at 1515 Montgomery Drive.