Preventative Cleanings - Prophy/ Prophylaxis

This is a cleaning appointment, where the hygienist thoroughly cleans your teeth and slightly under the gums to remove any plaque and tartar build-up. This helps prevent gum disease by preventing the gum (gingival) tissues from becoming inflamed.

Gingivitis

This is the term used to describe the condition when the gum tissues become red, swollen, inflamed and bleed easily. This is due to plaque and tartar that accumulates that allows bacterial colonies. The immune system cells present in the saliva attack the bacteria which leads to the puffy red gums. Overtime, this inflammation can damage the bone that surrounds the teeth, which we call Periodontitis.

Tarter build-up on the teeth traps bacteria and leads to bad breath. The tarter mechanically locks onto the teeth, and is virtually impossible to remove with the hygienists help of hand scalers and ultrasonic scalers.