Dental Code D1110: Prophylaxis - adult

Dental Code D1110 refers to the procedure known as prophylaxis for adults. Prophylaxis is a preventive dental treatment that focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing the onset and progression of dental diseases. 

On average, patients pay $110 for this D1110 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $25 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $140 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$25	$110	$140

However, the price for the service D1110 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

The first step in the prophylaxis procedure is an assessment and examination by a dental professional. This initial evaluation is crucial for understanding the patient's oral health status and identifying any underlying conditions. The dental professional will review the patient's dental and medical history, including any existing dental conditions, medications, allergies, and overall oral health. By gathering this information, the dental professional can tailor the treatment plan to the patient's specific needs.

During the examination, the dentist or dental hygienist will perform a visual inspection of the teeth, gums, and oral tissues. This involves using a small mirror and a dental explorer to examine each tooth carefully. The dental professional will look for signs of decay, gum disease, oral infections, and other abnormalities. They may also take dental X-rays to get a more comprehensive view of the teeth and underlying structures.

Once the assessment is complete, the dental professional will provide oral hygiene instructions to the patient. This step is crucial for educating patients on the best practices for maintaining good oral health at home. The dental professional will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, emphasizing the importance of reaching all tooth surfaces, including the back teeth and along the gum line. They will also provide guidance on the use of mouthwash and other oral care products.

Furthermore, the dental professional may discuss the significance of a balanced diet for oral health. They may recommend reducing the consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as these can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. Additionally, they may highlight the importance of regular dental visits for preventive care and early detection of any potential issues.

Scaling is a vital component of the prophylaxis procedure. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth and gum line. Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria and food particles that accumulate on the teeth, while tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone.

The dental professional will use specialized tools to perform scaling. These tools include ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments. Ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations and a stream of water to remove plaque and tartar. The dental professional will carefully guide the scaler along the tooth surfaces, targeting areas where buildup is particularly evident. Hand instruments, such as scalers and curettes, are used to manually remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas.

It's important to note that scaling may cause some discomfort or sensitivity, especially if there is significant tartar buildup. However, the dental professional will take steps to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia or numbing gels may be applied if necessary.

After scaling, the dental professional will proceed with the polishing step. Polishing helps to smoothen the tooth surfaces, making it more difficult for plaque to adhere. A dental polishing paste, usually containing abrasive particles, is applied to a rotating rubber cup or brush, which is then used to polish the teeth. The dental professional will carefully polish each tooth, paying attention to all surfaces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.

Polishing not only enhances the teeth's appearance but also removes any remaining stains and plaque remnants. It leaves the teeth feeling smooth and clean. The dental professional may also use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between the teeth and remove any residual debris.

In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be included as part of the prophylaxis procedure. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen the enamel, making it more resistant to tooth decay. A fluoride gel, foam, or varnish is applied to the teeth, allowing the teeth to absorb the fluoride and promote remineralization.

The dental professional will typically use a tray or brush to apply the fluoride treatment. The patient will be instructed to keep the fluoride in their mouth for a specific period, usually a few minutes, to allow for optimal absorption. Afterward, they will be asked to spit out the excess fluoride and avoid eating or drinking for a certain period to maximize the benefits. Fluoride treatments are particularly beneficial for individuals who are at a higher risk of developing cavities, such as those with a history of tooth decay or certain medical conditions.

Dental Code D1110, or prophylaxis for adults, is an essential dental procedure aimed at maintaining oral health. Through a series of steps, including assessment and examination, oral hygiene instructions, scaling, polishing, and, if necessary, fluoride treatmentprophylaxis helps to remove plaque, tartar, and stains, preventing the onset and progression of dental diseases.

Regular prophylaxis visits are crucial for individuals of all ages, as they help remove plaque, tartar, and stains that cannot be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing alone. By undergoing prophylaxis, patients can maintain healthy teeth and gums, prevent the development of periodontal disease, and reduce the risk of other dental issues such as cavities and bad breath. 

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