The importance of dental prophylaxis
Dental prophylaxis is the foundation of oral health and represents the most effective method of preventing dental diseases. Prevention is always less expensive and less painful than treating advanced dental conditions. Therefore, maintaining dental hygiene through a correct home care routine and regular visits to the dentist are essential for healthy teeth.
Proper oral hygiene
At home
Proper oral hygiene starts at home and involves:
- Toothbrushing: Done at least twice a day, using an appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. It is essential to learn correct brushing techniques to effectively remove plaque.
- Dental floss: Flossing daily helps clean the spaces between the teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach.< /span>
- Mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash completes oral hygiene by reducing the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease .
- Oral shower: A device that uses a jet of water to clean the spaces between the teeth and below the gum line.< /span>
At the dentist
Periodic visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining dental health and preventing serious problems. Prophylaxis procedures performed in the dental office include:
- Dental control: Recommended at least twice a year, to identify and treat dental problems in their early stages .
- Professional descaling and brushing: Removal of tartar and bacterial plaque, thus preventing periodontal diseases and caries. Ultrasonic descaling, rotary brushing and pressurized jet of water and sodium bicarbonate are effective techniques for cleaning teeth.
- Fluoridation and sealing: Fluoridation of teeth and sealing of occlusal grooves and pits are methods of preventing caries, especially in children. Sealing is a quick and painless procedure that provides anti-aging protection for at least two years.
- EMS Prophylaxis – Guided Biofilm Therapy: An advanced solution for dental biofilm management using AIRFLOW®, PERIOFLOW® technologies and PIEZON® for deep and effective cleaning of teeth, soft tissues and implants.
Prophylaxis for children
Children's dental care starts with the first tooth and involves:
- Teeth brushing twice a day: Using toothbrushes and toothpaste appropriate for the child's age.
- Sealing of permanent molars: After their eruption, to prevent caries, considering that children are not so meticulous in tooth brushing.
- Regular dental check-ups: To monitor tooth development and prevent dental problems.
Prophylaxis of bruxism
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause excessive tooth wear and joint problems. Prevention of bruxism involves:
- Manufacturing individual protective mouthguards: These polyacetate or acrylate mouthguards protect the teeth during the night, helping to relax the muscles and preventing joint problems.
Dental prophylaxis is essential for maintaining long-term oral health. Through proper oral hygiene, both at home and in the dental office, we can prevent most dental diseases and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Don't forget to visit the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and preventive treatments.