Main methods of prophylaxis:

Regular check-ups are very important for maintaining oral health. Many oral conditions evolve without pain, especially in the initial phases; therefore, patients are not aware of their occurrence until they have already progressed significantly.

During the periodic check, the dentist can detect the incipient cavities that the patient has not observed or can detect initial signs of a gum disease.

Moreover, some existing dental work or restorations may require repairs or reconstructions. The physician will also assess the health of oral tissues. As a general rule, the earlier a disease is discovered, the easier it is to treat.

Periodic checks should be carried out at least twice a year.

Teeth cleaning is the process of removing tartar and dental plaque using hand tools or specific sonic or ultrasonic dental tartar scrapers.

The dental plaque is the major cause of gingivitis and dental cavity, and tartar is a form of calcified dental plaque, also harmful to the gums and dental structures. The purpose of teeth cleaning is to remove the tartar and the dental plaque.

Professional brushing is aimed at removing the dental plaque that remains after tartar cleaning, as well as the various stains or coloring on the surface of the teeth.

It is best to perform professional brushing at least twice a year (usually during regular checks). Professional brushing is very effective in removing the plaque but must be accompanied by rigorous oral hygiene.

The airflow consists of spraying the tooth with a jet that mixes air, water and sodium bicarbonate. This method also represents a whitening process that does not use whitening chemicals, but acts by the mechanical power of cleaning of the bicarbonate crystals.

The jet of the airflow system penetrates into the smallest interdental spaces, thus effectively acting on all surfaces of the tooth.

This method prevents the stagnation of the microbes and the dental plaque in the grooves and pits of the molars and premolars, thus preventing tooth decay at this level.

Grooves and pits are the preferred place for the plaque to form and accumulate because it is difficult to clean. Sealing involves applying fluid composite materials inside grooves and pits which, after curing, will "close" these spaces, and moreover, release fluorine.

Sealing is performed on children's molars and premolars as soon as they have erupted. Adults can also benefit from sealing if this has not been done before. Sealing materials wear out in a few years; consequently, constant monitoring is needed to replace them if necessary.

It is an effective method of prophylaxis as it prevents the tooth decay and the occurrence of complications. Small cavities are easier and cheaper to treat. Once complications due to caries develop, treatment is both more complicated and more expensive.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen the enamel, making it more resistant to caries. Professional fluoridation requires the dentist to apply special gels or lacquers. They contain more fluoride than toothpastes or mouthwashes and can be applied once a year.