Today, prophylaxis can also encompass a wider range of oral health services, including treatment for co-occurring issues such as sleep apnea, storing and halitosis (bad breath). The ultimate goal is to provide you with the best overall health and quality of life. On this page, learn more about teeth cleaning and how it contributes to this goal.

All About Teeth Cleaning

If you have ever been to an oral health specialist to have your teeth cleaned, you probably remember the appointment included several stages, including the actual teeth cleaning itself.

In most cases, your dentist will recommend you come in to have your teeth cleaned every 6 to 12 months. During your appointment, your dentist will do each of the following:

• Give you a full oral examination to check the overall health of your gums, mouth tissues, teeth and jaw.
• Take x-rays to look for any developing oral health issues such as cavities.
• Do a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums, including plaque removal, brushing and flossing.
• Talk with you about any issues or concerns highlighted during the exam and answer any questions you may have.
• Offer tips for improved oral hygiene in between check-ups.

Make recommendations for follow-up services as needed.

In most cases, your appointment can be concluded in less than an hour.

Oral Hygiene Basics

Practicing good daily oral hygiene habits is important for much more than just maintaining the most attractive smile.

The truth is, the more frequently you make time to attend to your basic oral health, the less likely you will be to have a stroke, a heart attack or to develop periodontal disease.

The health of your mouth can be seen as a sign of your overall health. Since your mouth is very physically close to your brain, there is a significant danger in allowing bacteria to grow and spread through the mouth tissues. The more work your immune system has to do to fight off disease and infection, the more vulnerable your body becomes to more serious health issues, and the more serious those health issues can become as a result.

Poor Oral Hygiene is Linked to These Diseases

There is no doubt that life today is very busy. Many people feel like they never have a spare moment to themselves. But taking the time to visit your dentist for your annual or semi-annual teeth cleaning appointment now can save you huge amounts of time, money and discomfort in the future.

These diseases represent just a handful of the health conditions that poor oral health and hygiene can expose your body to:

• Endocarditis. This is an infection of the inner lining in the heart.
• Cardiovascular disease. This suite of diseases includes conditions affecting both the arteries and the heart.
• Diabetes. Medical science has established a proven link between gum disease and diabetes.
• Head and neck cancers. Cancer can arise anytime cells are exposed to infections and toxins.

Poor oral hygiene and health can also cause worsening symptoms if you have autoimmune disorders, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease or are pregnant (gum disease is linked to low birth weight in infants).

How to Prepare for Prophylaxis

The best way to prepare for a teeth cleaning preventative dental care appointment is to take great daily care of your teeth and mouth. This can be especially important if you are being treated for any other dental health issues, such as orthodontia, implants or sleep apnea.

By making sure to brush and floss after each meal and use bacteria-killing mouthwash, you can reduce your risk of developing dental caries (cavities), gum (periodontal) disease and discolored tooth enamel. Adopting these oral hygiene practices on a daily basis can ensure your prophylaxis appointment goes smoothly and quickly each and every time.

Contact Boynton Laser Dental Center Today

Here at Boynton Laser Dental Center, we specialize in offering the latest cutting-edge techniques for optimal oral hygiene and health. From preventative teeth cleaning to advanced cosmetic dentistry , medical and restorative dentistry, we provide our patients with optimal oral health and beautiful bright smiles.

Our founder, Dr. Harvey Shiffman, is an expert in the use of dental laser technology to minimize pain, reduce recovery time and eliminate the need for invasive techniques such as injection and drilling. Dr. Shiffman has been practicing dentistry in the South Florida area since 1985 and is proud to call South Florida his family’s home.

Contact us today by phone at 561-737-6400 or online at www.boyntonlaserdental.com.