Teeth Cleaning
Dental Prophylaxis
A dental prophylaxis is a cleaning treatment performed to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums. Prophylaxis is an important dental treatment for stopping the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Prophylaxis is an effective procedure in keeping the oral cavity in proper health and halting the progression of gum disease.
The benefits of professional teeth cleaning include:
Plaque Removal
Tartar (also referred to as calculus) and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can result in serious periodontal problems. Unfortunately, even with a proper home brushing and flossing routine, it can be impossible to remove all debris, bacteria, and deposits from gum pockets.
The experienced eye of a dentist or hygienist using specialized dental equipment is necessary to catch potentially damaging build-ups.
A Healthier Looking Smile
Stained and yellowed teeth can dramatically decrease the aesthetics of a smile. Prophylaxis is an effective treatment in ridding the teeth of these otherwise unsightly stains.
Fresher Breath
Bad breath (or halitosis) is generally indicative of advancing periodontal disease. A combination of rotting food particles (possibly below the gum line) and potential gangrene that stems from gum infection results in bad breath. The routine removal of plaque, calculus, and bacteria at our office can noticeably improve halitosis and reduce infection.
A professional dental cleaning can be performed at our office or by your general dentist. We recommend that prophylaxis be performed twice annually as a preventative measure, but should be completed every three to four months for periodontitis sufferers. It should be noted that gum disease cannot be completely reversed, but prophylaxis is one of the tools Dr. Latthe can use to effectively halt its progress.
We can help protect your smile
Proper oral hygiene can help prevent decay and tooth loss. Contact us today to schedule your professional teeth cleaning!
The Woodlands Prosthodontics
Patient Review by Jennifer B
When was the last time you had an amazing experience at your dentist appointment?? I can tell you I have never had the experience that I was privileged to yesterday! Due to some issues I was having with both my teeth & mouth, and a family history of bone deterioration, I was extremely concerned. I actually "stumbled" upon Dr. Latthe and his staff with The Woodlands Prosthodontics yesterday morning while searching the internet regarding my dental concerns. My initial call was only going to be for informative purposes. Dottie was who answered. She could not have been any sweeter, knowledgeable and truly caring. She asked about my dental history and educated me on the first steps that needed to be taken (Exam, X-Rays & Cleaning). Through the course of our conversation she asked about my schedule, as there was an appointment that had just become available a few minutes prior to my call. I was quick to book the appointment and rearrange my workload so that I could be seen in only a few hours! Upon arrival, both Dottie and Minnie were quick to welcome me. They were both genuinely kind and helped to ease my concerns. Once my personal and insurance information was completed, Dottie walked me back to the patient care area. Within seconds, I was meeting both Dr. Latthe and his assistant Alma. The genuine kindness and concern did not stop, as they continued to speak with me gathering family and personal history, and also current issues at hand. Both Dr. Latthe and Alma were personable, thorough and professional while making me feel as if I had know them for years. As I mentioned prior, Dr. Latthe is an educator. He has the knack of taking the time to fully educate in a way that puts your mind at ease, which is what I needed. Alma spoke with me about kids, music and life in general while prepping and taking the necessary x-rays. After the x-rays were taken, Dr. Latthe came back in, sat down and spoke with me about each film and the findings. My mind was now at ease and the worry was gone. The plan of treatment needed for this appointment was just a good deep cleaning, as the things I was worried about were no longer an issue. You cannot imagine how relieved I was. Upon conclusion of my appointment I booked additional appointments for both my daughter and myself. We will be returning next week for her exam, x-rays & cleaning. I will at that time, have my small cavities taken care of and I have already booked our 6 month cleaning for July. After hugging the whole staff and also Dotties sister (who happened to be visiting), I walked out of there feeling amazing!! Everyone and anyone whom I encountered yesterday as well as this morning has been privileged to hear about my experience, as I start by saying "If you need an amazing dentist and staff I have one for you" ............ Thank you Dottie for listening to me describe my symptoms which I was trying to explain through my tears that were brought on by the fear of the unknown. Alma, I love your music choices and the discussions about our kids. And to Dr, Latthe, you picked the right field to be a professional in ........... your education is what is needed when it comes to someone like me. I needed your kind words assuring me that what I was experiencing was normal, and that we would work together moving forward. This visit to the dentist is one I will never forget. You now have mine and my families business and my story will be one that I will tell as I spread the word about your practice! Thank you over and over ............. today I am smiling and no longer consumed with concern!!
- Jennifer B