Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is critical to maintaining adequate oral health.
The professional term for a standard dental cleaning is dental prophylaxis. This routine cleaning is used to remove plaque buildup that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone.
Child Prophylaxis
Before your child’s first appointment, it is important to explain to them what to expect, so there are no unwanted surprises during their exam. Teaching good oral hygiene early on will help prevent tooth decay, cavities, or gum disease. Children ages 3 and up will benefit from regular dental checkups. With your help, we can help them learn good brushing and flossing habits for life. Fluoride treatments during routine cleaning visits can also help strengthen tooth enamel, protecting teeth against cavity-causing bacteria.
Adult Prophylaxis
Regardless of how diligent you are in taking care of your teeth and gums, bacteria will inevitably build up in the mouth. These bacteria can be very harmful, causing decay, bad breath, infection, and even periodontal gum disease if not removed. The impact of these routine dental cleanings extends far beyond maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Oral cancer screenings are part of a routine office visit and can help catch early signs of health concerns beyond the teeth and gums. Regular professional dental cleanings are imperative to maintaining adequate overall health.