Prophy vs Scaling and Root Planing: Understanding the Differences

The Importance of Dental Health

As part of our dedication to providing exceptional oral healthcare, Lawrence Dentistry offers a range of comprehensive services to suit each patient's unique needs. This includes prophy and scaling and root planing, two common procedures often utilized to maintain optimal dental health.

Prophy: A Preventive Measure

In dental terms, a prophy, short for prophylaxis, involves the professional removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. It is typically performed as a routine preventive measure during regular dental check-ups. Prophy helps maintain healthy gums and teeth, preventing the onset of oral issues such as gum disease and cavities.

During a prophy procedure, the skilled dental hygienists at Lawrence Dentistry use specialized tools to gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth. They then proceed to polish each tooth, leaving a smooth and clean surface. Prophy is a non-invasive treatment that takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete.

Scaling and Root Planing: Treating Gum Disease

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a therapeutic dental procedure primarily targeted towards patients with gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when bacteria and plaque accumulate below the gum line, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and potential tooth loss.

Unlike a prophy, scaling and root planing involve a more extensive removal of plaque and tartar buildup both above and below the gum line. This procedure is performed by our experienced and highly-skilled dental professionals using specialized instruments to access and clean the deeper pockets of the gums.

Scaling and root planing aims to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar that have accumulated around the teeth and root surfaces. By eliminating these harmful substances, the gums can start to heal, reducing inflammation and restoring oral health.

Which Procedure is Right for You?

Choosing whether to undergo a prophy or scaling and root planing depends on the current state of your oral health. During your visit to Lawrence Dentistry, our team of experts will conduct a thorough examination, evaluating the overall condition of your teeth and gums.

If you have good oral health with minimal plaque and tartar buildup, a regular prophy treatment might be sufficient to maintain your oral hygiene. However, if you have signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen gums or bad breath, scaling and root planing may be recommended to address the underlying issues and prevent further damage.

It is important to note that while a prophy is typically performed preventively, scaling and root planing is a therapeutic procedure targeting existing gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, are crucial in preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Contact Lawrence Dentistry for Expert Dental Care

At Lawrence Dentistry, we are committed to delivering exceptional dental care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Our skilled team of professionals utilizes state-of-the-art technology and follows the highest standards to provide the best possible outcome for our patients.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the prophy and scaling and root planing procedures. Together, we can achieve and maintain optimal dental health.