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Periodontal prophylaxis is essential for promoting healthy dental care habits and maintaining good oral health for a beautiful smile. At Boca Perio Implants we are committed to ensuring your smile reflects your joys for years to come.
What is dental prophylaxis? Periodontal prophylaxis is a cleaning treatment that we offer here at Boca Perio Implants to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums for the ultimate, dazzling smile. Periodontal prophylaxis is an important dental treatment for stopping the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease, and an effective procedure to keep the oral cavity in proper health.
We offer periodontal prophylaxis treatment to help our patients maintain healthy gums and avoid the need for further dental intervention. To be considered eligible for this procedure, patients must have a comprehensive oral exam and evaluation1 by one of our experienced dentists to look for any active signs of periodontal diseases, such as bleeding from brushing or flossing, inflammation or swelling, or recession of the gum line. If there are any signs of periodontal disease then additional treatments may be needed before undergoing prophylaxis treatment.
The benefits are immense – periodontal prophylaxis can help protect against tooth decay and cavities, improve gum health, strengthen teeth, decrease sensitivity, and even improve overall oral health. Additionally, it can help reduce the risk of developing serious gum diseases2 such as periodontitis and gingivitis. It also helps to prevent bad breath (halitosis), reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the gums. By ensuring routine removal of plaque, calculus and bacteria with Dr. Leichter at Boca Perio Implants, you can maintain oral health and enjoy a healthier smile for years to come!
Dr. Leichter is the perfect choice for your periodontal treatment needs. With an impressive Harvard education, more than 30 years of experience, and a reputation for being attentive, compassionate and highly skilled in his field, you can be sure that you are in the best of hands when it comes to your oral health. His knowledge and expertise ensure that every treatment plan is tailored to each individual patient’s needs, giving them the best possible outcome and care. Book your appointment today, don’t delay!
How much does periodontal treatment cost?
Several instances may affect the cost of periodontal treatment, and so pricing may differ on a patient-by-patient basis. At your appointment or consultation in our Boca Raton office, Dr. Leichter will discuss costs so you know what to expect in terms of any treatment needs.
What is the difference between periodontal maintenance and prophylaxis?
In general terms, periodontal maintenance is usually reserved for those with existing issues such as periodontitis – an advanced form of gum disease, and thus requires different treatment. Whereas periodontal prophylaxis is a preventative measure for teeth and gums that are already healthy and disease-free.
How often should you have oral prophylaxis?
The American Dental Association recommends regular prophylaxis appointments – approximately once every six months. However, your dentist may recommend these more frequently depending on the current state of your teeth and gums. Along with a complete and regular personal dental hygiene routine, this will ensure your mouth, gums and teeth remain healthy and clean, and prevent any form of dental disease.
What three things are removed during a prophylaxis?
During periodontal prophylaxis, plaque, calculus and other bacteria are removed from the teeth and gums to prevent future buildup and development of bad breath, gum disease and teeth staining. Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria on the teeth that makes them feel ‘fuzzy’. Calculus, also known as tartar, is the hard, calcified form of plaque that builds around the teeth.
Is periodontal cleaning the same as deep cleaning?
Periodontal means ‘around the teeth’ – so periodontal cleaning involves the removal of plaque, bacteria and calculus/tartar under the gumline and within the periodontal pockets, the spaces between the teeth and the gums. These areas aren’t often reached with a regular dental cleaning, which may involve more surface-level cleaning.
Can I brush my teeth after prophylaxis?
You can brush your teeth as part of your normal cleaning routine after prophylaxis, for example in the evening or before you go to bed. However, you should use gentle strokes or a brush with flexible bristles. We also recommend you do not eat for 30 minutes after your cleaning.
How long does a dental prophylaxis take?
In general, prophylaxis will take around 60 minutes. However, when booking your appointment with us at Boca Perio Implants, you’ll be advised how much time the appointment will take, depending on the input needed along with any other treatments required or requested.
1 American Academy of Periodontology. Diagnosis and Examination. Available: https://www.perio.org/research-science/periodontal-literature-review/diagnosis-and-examination/.
2 American Dental Association. Gum Disease. Available: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/gum-disease.
Contact Boca Perio Implants, committed to serve all communities around West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach and Delray Beach!
Dr. Julian C. Leichter is a Harvard Fellow, and Boca Raton’s trusted leader in periodontics with more than 40 years of experience in natural tooth preservation, and implant preservation. His periodontal techniques continue to nurture many healthy smiles throughout Florida, and beyond.
