General Dentistry
Cleanings (Prophylaxis)

Derived from the Greek word “prophylaktikos” to guard or prevent beforehand, prophylaxis refers to any medical or public health procedure whose purpose is to prevent rather than treat or cure disease. Divided into two categories called primary prophylaxis (to prevent the development of a disease) and secondary prophylaxis (whereby the disease has already developed and the patient is protected against worsening of this process). Professional cleaning of the teeth is a dental prophylaxis.

Prevention of dental disease (dental caries (tooth decay) and the periodontal (gum) diseases) is a very important service that is provided by our highly trained and licensed dental hygienists. Both primary and secondary prophylaxis is provided to each client based on their current state of oral health. The use of high technical devices such as the diode laser and ultrasonic scaler aid in the prevention of gum disease. Cavity detection exams and digital x-rays are used to find dental decay early and fluoride treatments help both prevent decay from occurring and remineralize tooth structure that is already beginning to decay.