Cleanings (Prophylaxis)

An Adult or Child teeth cleaning is also referred to as a prophylaxis. At Machen Family Dentistry we have two Registered Dental Hygienists. Our hygienists are trained to evaluate bone levels and evaluate if there is any infection of the gums or bone supporting the teeth. After assessing the health of the gums, and if diagnosing that the patient is healthy the hygienist then proceeds to the prophylaxis. Specific instruments are gently used to clean the hardened plaque build-up also known as calculus that is found on the teeth. The cavitron is an instrument that our hygienists often use to help efficiently and gently clean the teeth. It is an instrument that squirts water and vibrates which cleans off the calculus build-up. On a child prophylaxis the cavitron is not used, but light hand instrumenting is used to help clean off any build-up that may be starting.

After cleaning off the teeth, our hygienists polish and floss which helps clean off any excess plaque and leaves teeth feeling smooth and clean. For children we use a fluoride varnish which is painted on all surfaces of the teeth. This varnish helps fight cavities and strengthens the enamel of the teeth. Our hygienists are very gentle in their instrumenting and take special care in the concerns of the patients.