ORAL PROPHYLAXIS

Oral prophylaxis is a treatment to preserve your healthy teeth and gums and the prevention of dental caries and oral disease. It includes at home dental care performed by patients, as well as dental care and education by professional dental staff in the office.

The two common procedures of oral prophylaxis are oral examination & scaling;

ORAL EXAMINATION

It includes examination of the teeth and soft tissue, using visual, tactile exams, and radiographic examination.

SCALING

Scaling is a professional cleaning you receive from your dentist, because even you brush and floss your teeth faithfully, your teeth tend to build up a layer of plaque and hard deposit called calculus that will difficult to remove without special tools.

If it left untreated, it will lead to inflammation of the gums. (picture)

What is the benefit of scaling?

• Prevent tooth decay and gum disease Saliva, bacteria, and protein inside the mouth will make a thin layer and cover your tooth all the time. When you eat, the acid and sugar will stick to the film layer and create a build-up named plaque. If the plaque is not removed, it will lead to inflammation of the gum and tooth decay.
• Prevent bad breath: the bacteria that lives inside the plaque may release certain substances due to their metabolic function and may cause bad breath. Scaling, in addition to brushing and flossing will help you to have a fresh breath
• Early detection of disease