What is oral prophylaxis, and how important is this dental cleaning?

Patients in and around the Longmont, Colorado area who are thinking about visiting a dentist for a cleaning will want to work with a team that provides a judgment-free zone for those who may have been putting their oral health on the back burner. Even if it has been a while since your last cleaning and examination, Dr. Amy Farmer and her team at Crossroads Dental are here to help! We always start with a dental cleaning, sometimes referred to by our team as oral prophylaxis or a “prophy,” performed by our dental hygienists.

What is oral prophylaxis?

Our team at Crossroads Dental in Longmont, Colorado, describes oral prophylaxis as the process of professionally cleaning and polishing your teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. This preventive dental procedure also helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Why are dental cleanings important?

Oral prophylaxis is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. It involves removing any buildup of tartar and plaque that can accumulate on your teeth over time. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth due to the bacteria in your mouth mixing with food particles and saliva. If left untreated, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone.

How often do I need oral prophylaxis?

Regular oral prophylaxis appointments are recommended every six months to help keep your teeth clean and healthy. However, if you have a history of periodontal disease or are at a higher risk of developing cavities, you may need to see Dr. Amy Farmer and her team more often. During your appointments, they will discuss how often cleanings should be done to achieve healthy smiles.

What can I expect during my dental cleaning appointment?

First, x-rays may be taken to evaluate the health of your teeth and jawbone. Then, our dental hygienist utilizes special tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth. Afterward, professional polishing is done to remove any remaining stains and leave your teeth looking bright and clean. Dr. Amy Farmer ends the appointment with a thorough examination of the mouth to check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer.

Who can I contact in Longmont, Colorado, for routine dental cleanings and examinations?

Whether you are new to the area or are looking for a new dental team to care for you and your family’s oral health and wellness, we invite you to book an appointment with Dr. Amy Farmer and her team for a cleaning and evaluation. We are located at 1520 South Hover, Suite E-F, and can be reached by calling (970) 703-8556. We look forward to meeting you and starting on a journey to better oral health together!

Dr. Amy E. Farmer, DDS near me

Dr. Amy E. Farmer, DDS
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Dr. Amy E. Farmer, a top female dentist in Longmont, CO, received her BA from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, in 1995 and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa’s College of Dentistry in 1998. She has been practicing general dentistry in Colorado since 1999. She takes over 100 hours of continuing education annually. Most of her postgraduate education has been completed at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, Boulder-Broomfield County Dental Society, International Association for Orthodontics, American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Farmer believes in personalized services based on a foundation of trust. Winning the Best of Longmont Cosmetic Dentists Award from 2019 to 2024 is a testament to her expertise and experience.