The practice of addressing dental caries during the same appointment as a prophylactic cleaning is becoming increasingly common. This approach involves the dentist or hygienist first performing a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, followed immediately by the identification and restoration of any cavities detected during the examination. The feasibility of this combined procedure depends on several factors, including the number and severity of the cavities, the patient’s tolerance for longer appointments, and the dentist’s scheduling practices.
Offering this service provides convenience to patients, reducing the number of visits required for routine dental care. From a clinical perspective, consolidating these procedures can improve treatment efficiency and potentially reduce anxiety associated with multiple dental appointments. Historically, restorative and preventative treatments were often scheduled separately, but advancements in dental materials and techniques, coupled with a greater focus on patient-centered care, have made same-day treatment a more viable option.
