Prophylaxis & Flouride
Treatment involves cleaning and polishing the teeth with a mildly abrasive polishing paste held against the tooth by a rotating rubber cup.
This treatment is usually takes only a few minutes unless there is significant staining or the build up of calculus or tarter which may need to be scraped off the tooth.
Benefits and alternatives
The proposed treatment is intended to remove any stain, plaque, or tarter from the teeth so that they look cleaner, and remove the irritating plaque from the gum tissue allowing it to heal and strengthen. Since fluoride cannot penetrate plaque, the prophylaxis also greatly enhances the uptake and absorption of the fluoride into the enamel. Finally, when the teeth are clean they are also smooth which makes the future removal of plaque with the toothbrush much easier.
Consequences of not performing treatment
This treatment provides the best way to remove stain, tarter, and plaque from the teeth. Continuous poor oral hygiene results in increased dental disease especially of the gums and periodontal tissues, which support the teeth. By signing the consent form, you acknowledge that you have received adequate information about the proposed treatment, that you understand this information and that all of your questions have been answered fully.