What is Dental Prophylaxis?

Procedures geared towards promoting oral health, dental prophylaxis includes anything from routine dental checkups to getting sealants to guard the teeth from cavities. Different types of prophylaxis will be discussed in this article to help patients determine if they could benefit from any of the procedures.

Dental Exams

As part of a routine checkup, a dentist will examine the mouth for gum disease, oral cancer, cavities, and more. Studies have shown that preventative visits in the long-term, were linked with a reduced need for fillings or other restorations. Unless dental conditions arise that would require more frequent attention, patients should get a dental exam annually.

Because they are extremely susceptible to tooth decay and other dental conditions, children have special dental care needs. Children are recommended by The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry to have their first dental exam and prophylactic treatment at one year of age.

X-Rays

Often, a standard practice is that dental X-rays, also called bitewings, be taken as part of an annual dental exam. However, The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests that unless there are dental problems present, annual X-rays are not needed for everyone. According to the ADA, adults who properly brush, take care of their teeth, and do not have cavities or gum conditions, only need bitewings taken every two to three years.

Dental Prophylaxis (Cleaning)

Another component of most annual dental visits is a cleaning. However, much like X-rays, this annual polishing and scraping is not always required. In fact, results from several studies have provided inconclusive evidence into the efficacy of polishing and scaling procedures and whether they provide more benefit or harm.

One example of harm that dental scaling can cause is periprosthetic joint infection cause by bacteria in the bloodstream (bacteremia). This results from gum agitation that causes bacteria to travel into the bloodstream from the mouth. Though studies have shown bacteremia to be present immediately following dental prophylaxis procedures, it does not mean regular dental cleanings are not justified.

Fluoride Treatments and Sealants

Dental sealants can be applied to the teeth to protect them against decay and cavities. Dental sealants may be applied by a dental hygienist without a dentist examination making the treatment cost effective. When used with children, dental sealants have a proven track record of long-term cavity prevention.

Fluoride treatments are also recommended prophylaxis procedures that can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Certain geographic areas add fluoride to public water supplies but in areas where this is not available, fluoride supplementation is recommended.

Dental Flossing

Typically performed by a dental hygienist after scaling and prior to polishing, flossing is another prophylaxis procedure. Patients are also encouraged to floss daily at home as part of their oral hygiene routine. When combined with brushing, studies have shown flossing to lower the risk of developing gingivitis.

Dental Brushing

The single most effective preventative measure that dentists teach patients is to regularly brush their teeth. While significant research is not available regarding how often patients should brush the teeth for optimal results, most data suggests that two times per day is recommended.

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