Healthy teeth and gums a lifetime - everybody can reach that goal with the right prophylaxis.
To prevent caries (tooth decay) and periodontosis (inflammatory destruction of tooth supporting tissues and bone) just brushing your teeth is not enough.
That's why your dentist will offer useful prophylactic measures in addition to domestic dental care. These precautions will be taken by extra skilled hygienists.
What is a professional teeth cleaning?
You sometimes can't resist deep-seated bacterial plaque as the main reason of periodontosis, even if you look after your teeth conscientiously.
That's why professional teeth cleaning will be needed. Any soft or hard plaque and bacteria can be destroyed and removed. Professional teeth cleaning is an effective way to prevent caries and diseases of the tooth socket.
What does professional teeth cleaning work like?
First the dentition will be examined thoroughly. Then, using special instruments, the plaque will be removed from the parts, which are hardly to clean by tooth brushing: the surface of the teeth, the space between teeth and the gingival pockets. Professional teeth cleaning also removes any tooth discoloration caused by coffee, tea or nicotine.
After hard plaque has been removed soft build-ups will be eliminated using little brushes and floss. Since bacteria prefer rough surfaces and niches polishing to smooth teeth will be next. After that either teeth will be fluoridated or gums will be treated with ointment or both will be done, as required.
Finally the prophylaxis assistant will give to the patient some advice on right oral hygiene at home.
How often does professional teeth cleaning make good sense?
Scientific research shows that professional teeth cleaning at six-month intervals is the perfect complement to thorough tooth brushing in order to keep teeth and gums healthy. But depending on the individual risk of illness other intervals may be sensible. Those other intervals should be coordinated with the patient's individual needs.
How much does professional teeth cleaning cost?
German legislation has defined dental prophylaxis for adults as a personal contribution, therefore statutory health insurance does not pay for professional teeth cleaning. Costs depend on the amount of time.
