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Serving the greater Denver area including City Park, Congress Park, Capitol Hill, Whittier, Five Points, Cherry Creek, Country Club, Speer, Lincoln Park, Baker, Washington Park, Union Station and more.
Dental Cleanings
A dental prophylaxis, commonly referred to as a dental cleaning, is a preventive dental procedure performed by our dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the teeth and gums. It is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
During a dental prophylaxis, our hygienist will remove plaque and tartar deposits from the surfaces of the teeth, particularly in hard-to-reach areas such as between the teeth and along the gumline. This process, known as scaling, helps eliminate bacteria and other harmful substances that can contribute to tooth decay and gum inflammation.
After scaling, the teeth are polished using a special paste and a polishing tool to remove surface stains and smooth the tooth surfaces, making them less susceptible to plaque buildup and staining in the future. The polishing process also helps to create a smoother surface that is easier to clean with regular brushing and flossing.
Routine dental cleanings may also include x-rays, intra-oral photos, and/or an exam by our dentist, depending on the circumstance.
If you suspect (or one of our providers diagnoses) gum disease there are specific treatments for that. See here
Why it's important to have regular cleanings or periodontal treatments:
In addition to obvious reasons (keeping your teeth, maintaining fresh breath), there are other important reasons to maintain good oral health, such as:
Cardiovascular Health: Research has shown that periodontal (gum) disease is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis. Chronic inflammation in the gums may contribute to inflammation in the blood vessels, leading to the development and progression of cardiovascular conditions.
Diabetes: Poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes and complications associated with diabetes. Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, and gum disease may make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels, leading to poorly managed diabetes.
Pregnancy Complications: Poor oral health during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Pregnant women with untreated gum disease may be more likely to experience complications during pregnancy.
Respiratory Infections: Oral bacteria and inflammation from gum disease can travel through the bloodstream and reach the lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia and exacerbating existing respiratory conditions
Alzheimer's Disease: Some research suggests that chronic gum inflammation may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.