Conservative dentistry

Dental prophylaxis defines specific procedures. One of the basic ones is the removal of tartar and dental plaque. Depending on the type of deposits, two methods are used: scaling and sandblasting. The first method is the removal of hard dental deposits accumulating on the surfaces of tooth crowns using ultrasound. The second method uses a sandblaster to remove all soft deposits and unsightly discolorations caused by the consumption of coffee, strong tea, red wine, and smoking cigarettes.

Professional dental prophylaxis also includes procedures such as: fluoridation (coating the teeth with fluoride varnish – strengthens the enamel and effectively prevents cavities), sealing teeth (sealing the grooves of permanent molars to prevent cavities), and ozone therapy, which is a procedure for destroying bacteria, fungi, and viruses using an ozone-generating device. A very important element of cavity prevention is learning oral hygiene. Its goal is to teach the patient proper tooth brushing and the appropriate choice of oral hygiene products. As is well known, only proper oral hygiene will stop periodontal diseases and the formation of cavities.

Tooth sensitivity is a painful condition that can make life difficult. What does it involve? It usually occurs when the dentin (tooth tissue) is exposed. After the dental tubules are exposed due to gum tissue recession or enamel loss, the nerves are more easily stimulated by certain stimuli, causing tooth sensitivity. This condition is associated with sharp and short-term pain, for example, when consuming hot, cold, acidic, or sweet drinks and foods. We may also feel discomfort during touch, such as flossing and brushing teeth – especially with inappropriate toothpaste. In most cases, the cause of sensitivity is improper oral hygiene. Sensitivity can also result from malocclusion or mechanical damage to the enamel.

Proper prophylaxis based on good oral hygiene and systematic use of appropriate preparations can protect teeth from sensitivity and alleviate its symptoms. What should be remembered? First of all, brushing teeth (at least twice a day) with a soft toothbrush. It is important that the toothbrush movements are not too abrupt and too strong. Teeth should also not be brushed horizontally, as this damages the gums and exposes the tooth necks. Toothbrush movements should be circular, sweeping from the gum to the tooth crown. An important element in the prophylaxis of sensitivity is the appropriate choice of toothpaste. Such toothpaste should be dedicated to sensitive teeth, contain highly absorbable fluoride, and have a low level of abrasiveness (RDA) – preferably in the range of 30-70. Whitening toothpastes should be avoided

The formation of cavities is a process during which the tooth enamel softens under the influence of acids, and cavities slowly begin to form. These acids are produced when bacteria on dental plaque break down sugars present in the mouth. The main cause of cavities is the consumption of sweet, sticky foods and drinks. The more sugar we eat, the more acids are produced, leading to the formation of cavities. To effectively prevent cavities, it is worth implementing actions that strengthen the teeth. Dental prophylaxis in the office and systematic cleaning of teeth from tartar are very important. If necessary, the dentist will apply fluoride to the threatened areas, which will prevent cavities and decay.

Cavity prevention also includes regular brushing of teeth with fluoride toothpaste. It has been proven that this ingredient protects teeth from cavities and decay. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, preferably after each meal, to remove sugars and starches that turn into destructive acids. If brushing is not possible, it is worth chewing sugar-free gum after a meal, which will clean the teeth of food residues. It is also worth looking for mouthwashes containing fluoride. Do not forget about flossing. Dental floss helps remove plaque and food residues accumulated between the teeth. An important element of prophylaxis is a healthier diet and limiting the consumption of sweets. Changing eating habits and improving oral hygiene is also a reliable way to reduce the formation of tartar. Scaling – the removal of tartar using ultrasound – is also recommended every six months. Sandblasting and fluoridation are also helpful