A dental prophylaxis is a thorough dental cleaning that we provide for patients. Most patients receive a dental cleaning twice a year during routine appointments. Dental prophylaxis can also include a dental exam, fluoride treatment, or scaling and root planing for gum disease.

Dr. Sarah Cook provides dental prophylaxis treatment in Chapel Hill, NC. At Tarheel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Cook uses it as a preventative measure to fight infection and keep the teeth and gums healthy.

Types of Dental Prophylaxis

There are a variety of procedures and treatments that make up dental prophylaxis.

Dental Exams

During a routine dental exam, we may take x-rays and provide a dental cleaning in the same visit. X-rays allow us to keep track of the form of your bite and find the cause of any dental concerns you may have.

Modern digital x-rays show the whole tooth structure so we can diagnose problems early. During routine cleanings, we are able to clean hard-to-reach areas to fight off plaque and dental infection.

Fluoride Treatment

Our dental hygienists will provide a fluoride rinse or apply a gel to the enamel during your routine dental cleaning. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and combat cavities.

Before applying fluoride and cleaning the teeth and gums, we may recommend tooth polishing. During this treatment, we remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Then, we buff and polish the teeth, floss between the teeth, and apply fluoride to the enamel.

Root Scaling and Planing

Dental prophylaxis can include deep cleaning treatment for gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Root scaling and planing are treatments used in tandem to clean out gum infection and improve the health of the teeth and gums.

During root scaling, we remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths down the tooth roots and removes infection to help the gum reattach to the tooth.

Contact Our Chapel Hill Dental Office

Do you require routine dental care? Are you looking for gum disease treatment? Call Tarheel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at (919) 551-8847. Current patients may call (919) 442-1670. You may also schedule a consultation with Dr. Cook on our website.