Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning) in Salida, CO

Even with good brushing and flossing habits, plaque and tartar can build up over time, leading to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.

At Relaxation Dental, our thorough yet gentle cleanings remove stubborn buildup and keep your smile bright, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.

What Is Prophylaxis?

Prophylaxis is a routine preventive dental cleaning that removes plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from your teeth. It plays a crucial role in:

• Preventing cavities and gum disease
• Eliminating plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas
• Keeping your breath fresh and your smile bright

Even if you brush and floss daily, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleanings

• Prevents gum disease and tooth decay by eliminating bacteria buildup.
• Freshens breath by removing odor-causing plaque.
• Reduces the risk of tooth loss by keeping gums healthy.
• Brightens your smile by removing surface stains from coffee, tea, and tobacco.
• Saves money by preventing the need for costly treatments in the future.

Routine cleanings keep your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your smile beautiful.

What Happens During a Prophylaxis Cleaning?

Our dental cleanings are comfortable, thorough, and customized to your needs.

Step 1: Dental Exam & Plaque Assessment

Before the cleaning begins, we examine your teeth and gums to check for early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. Digital X-rays may be taken if needed.

Step 2: Tartar & Plaque Removal (Scaling)

Using specialized dental instruments, we gently remove hardened plaque and tartar from the teeth and gumline. This helps prevent gum inflammation and more serious dental problems.

Step 3: Polishing & Stain Removal

A polishing paste is used to smooth the tooth surface and remove minor stains, leaving your teeth feeling fresh and clean.

Step 4: Flossing & Final Rinse

We floss between your teeth to ensure no plaque is left behind and provide a fluoride rinse if needed to strengthen enamel.

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

• The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends professional cleanings every six months.
• Patients with a history of gum disease may need cleanings every 3-4 months to maintain gum health.
• Those with braces, dental implants, or a high risk of cavities may also benefit from more frequent cleanings.

Skipping regular cleanings allows tartar and bacteria to build up, increasing the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues.

Is a Regular Cleaning Enough, or Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?

A regular prophylaxis cleaning is designed to remove plaque and tartar above the gumline and prevent gum disease. However, if gum disease has already developed, a deeper cleaning may be necessary.

• Prophylaxis (Regular Cleaning) is recommended for patients with healthy gums and no signs of gum disease.
• Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) is needed for patients with moderate to severe gum disease, where bacteria has spread below the gumline.

If you have bleeding gums, gum recession, or deep pockets around your teeth, you may need a scaling & root planing treatment instead of a standard cleaning.

How to Maintain a Healthy Smile Between Cleanings

To keep your teeth and gums in top condition between visits:

• Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss once a day to remove plaque from between the teeth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and prevent gum disease.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods that can contribute to enamel erosion.
• Stay hydrated to keep your mouth clean and prevent dry mouth.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to detect issues early.

By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can prevent dental problems and keep your smile strong for years to come.

Why Choose Relaxation Dental for Your Teeth Cleaning?

• Gentle, Comfortable Cleanings – We focus on pain-free, thorough care.
• State-of-the-Art Technology – Digital X-rays and modern tools ensure efficient, precise cleanings.
• Personalized Dental Care – We tailor treatments to your specific oral health needs.
• Comprehensive Preventive Dentistry – We provide routine checkups, fluoride treatments, sealants, and periodontal therapy all in one place.

At Relaxation Dental, we make dental cleanings a relaxing and positive experience.