A radiant smile with flawless teeth is now not only part of the beauty ideal. It is furthermore a sign of health and care. Because a visit to the dentist can be expensive for some complaints, regular appointments for prophylaxis are recommended.
What is prophylaxis?
In dentistry, the goal of prophylaxis is to prevent disease from occurring in the first place so that symptoms do not develop and treatment becomes necessary. In dentistry, prophylaxis does not initially represent early detection. Instead, its aim is to prevent diseases from the outset so that no symptoms develop and treatment becomes necessary. In this context, the responsibility lies primarily with the individual himself. While assistance can be provided during a dental appointment, such as in the form of professional teeth cleaning, most preventive procedures take place at home and at regular intervals. Awareness of dental appointments for checkups can reveal disease early. In such a case, prophylaxis strives to prevent aggravation and instead initiate appropriate therapy. Prophylaxis can be divided into different categories. For example, there is collective prophylaxis, which is aimed at the entire population. Semicollective prophylaxis, on the other hand, refers to individual, precisely defined groups. Patients at risk should also undergo intensive prophylaxis. While dental check-ups are usually free of charge, the removal of serious defects can be expensive. Extra services such as professional teeth cleaning are also not covered by statutory health insurance. Yet they can make up a relevant part of prophylaxis.
Function, effect and goals
Many diseases of the mouth and teeth begin in deposits of plaque and tartar and their metabolic products, which can have negative effects. Prophylaxis is thus based on eliminating the offending factors. Various measures are used here. Regular and thorough oral hygiene is particularly important. This includes, above all, daily brushing of the teeth. The aim of dental hygiene is to remove food residues and plaque, which can be found between the teeth and in the oral cavity. Caries may develop from these. In this regard, the sole use of mouthwashes and rinses is not sufficient, so brushing teeth should be firmly integrated into everyday life. According to scientific studies, there are only negligible differences in the final result when it comes to the technique of brushing teeth. However, the toothbrush should not be placed with firm pressure and have excessively hard bristles. Otherwise, it is particularly important to brush where plaque is deposited. In addition to the outer row of teeth, the inner space should also be considered, as well as the transition between the tooth and the gum. A suitable toothpaste supports the cleaning effect. However, it should contain only a very small amount of abrasive ingredients, otherwise the enamel may be damaged. In the evening, it is advisable to refrain from rinsing the mouth after brushing. This allows the toothpaste‘s caring ingredients to take effect overnight. Regular use of dental floss is also recommended for the complete removal of food residues. At best, dental floss is used in the evening. A distinction can be made between waxed and non-waxed dental floss. While the results of the re-waxed version are usually better, the waxed version is easier to use. In this way, it is also possible to eliminate deposits that have accumulated in the narrow spaces between the teeth. In addition to brushing the teeth at home twice a day, professional teeth cleaning helps to ensure the health of the oral cavity. According to experts, this should be performed about every six months. Some health insurance companies cover part of the costs under certain conditions. However, it is usually a private service performed by the dentist and his employees. In some situations, such as existing diabetes, permanent stress or dependence on certain medications, more frequent professional teeth cleaning may be necessary. The duration of the treatment depends on the number of teeth to be cleaned. As a rule, a time of approximately one hour should be expected.During dental cleaning, the oral cavity and teeth are first examined. The condition of the teeth and gums finally determines the further procedure. Sound vibrations, powder–water spray and some manual instruments are used during professional cleaning. At the end, a substance containing flouride is applied. After such treatment, the teeth should be smooth and clean. During a professional teeth cleaning, some doctors give their patients additional tips on daily oral hygiene. This may include rinsing in addition to brushing. If the mouth is cleaned in this way after eating or consuming sugary drinks, germs, food residues and acidity are reduced. Thus, it is possible to prevent the development of diseases. After vomiting, it is important to rinse the mouth only. The stomach acid already irritates the tooth enamel. Further treatment by the toothbrush would destroy the attacked enamel. In the meantime, chemical agents already exist that prevent the formation of plaque and its metabolic products. These are sold in the form of toothpastes, gels or rinsing solutions and are used accordingly. If plaque has already settled, chemical elements can help to dissolve it. However, some agents are not suitable for long-term therapy. If in doubt, a dentist or pharmacist should be consulted.
Risks, side effects and dangers
Within the framework of prophylaxis in dentistry, disadvantages can certainly arise. Often, these can be traced back to incorrect use of toothbrush and dental floss. If a strong pressure is applied to the teeth during brushing, the enamel can suffer from oral hygiene. The teeth become sensitive to various stimuli such as heat and cold. Furthermore, the development of caries is more likely in such a condition. Careless flossing may result in bleeding gums. Depending on their severity, they can be not only painful. They also promote the penetration of bacteria and other pathogens, so that inflammation can occur. Professional teeth cleaning is perceived by many patients as unpleasant. If it is not performed properly, damage to the tooth surfaces cannot be ruled out. Patients with a weak immune system can suffer from further discomfort after having their teeth cleaned by the dentist if the bacteria released enter the blood via minor injuries and thus spread throughout the body. Existing implants can be scratched by professional tooth cleaning if the dentist does not use the right instruments. However, the disadvantages of such treatment can usually be reduced by choosing the right dentist. Studies have shown that the benefits of professional cleaning cannot be achieved with daily home care.
