Prophylaxis paste, commonly known as prophy paste, is a specialized abrasive material used exclusively by dental professionals during a routine cleaning appointment (prophylaxis). This paste is significantly more abrasive than regular toothpaste and is designed for polishing the tooth surface. Dental hygienists and dentists use this professional-grade product to achieve a thorough polish after the teeth have been scaled to remove hard deposits like calculus. The composition and use of prophy paste are managed to ensure effective stain removal while minimizing unnecessary wear on the tooth structure.
Function and Purpose
The primary function of prophy paste is to polish the enamel surface of the teeth, acting as the final step in a professional dental cleaning. The abrasive action of the paste effectively removes stubborn extrinsic stains caused by substances like coffee, tea, or tobacco that scaling cannot eliminate. The polishing action creates a smooth, highly lustrous surface on the enamel. By smoothing the enamel, the paste helps deter the rapid re-adhesion of new plaque and bacterial biofilm, making it more difficult for new deposits to accumulate.
Key Components and Abrasiveness
Prophy paste is a complex mixture, with the most important component being the abrasive agent that performs the polishing and stain removal. Common abrasive materials include pumice (a type of volcanic glass) or silica compounds, which create the paste’s gritty texture. These ingredients are suspended in a base that typically includes binders to maintain consistency, humectants to prevent drying, and various flavorings.
The degree of abrasiveness is the main factor distinguishing different paste varieties, often categorized by “grit” as fine, medium, or coarse. Professionals select the appropriate grit based on the patient’s needs, using coarse pastes for heavy staining and fine pastes for achieving a final polish. Abrasiveness is measured using the Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) scale, which quantifies the potential for wear. Prophy pastes have high RDA values (often exceeding 300 for coarse varieties), explaining why they are not intended for daily home use. Many pastes also incorporate therapeutic additives like fluoride to strengthen the enamel surface after polishing.
Application and Clinical Considerations
The application of prophy paste is a standardized procedure performed using a specialized low-speed dental handpiece. The paste is placed into a small, disposable rubber cup or brush attached to the handpiece, which is then rotated gently against the tooth surface. The procedure is very quick, with the cup contacting the tooth for only a few seconds per surface to minimize the removal of the fluoride-rich outer enamel layer.
A modern clinical approach called selective polishing guides this application, emphasizing that the paste should only be used where genuinely needed to remove extrinsic stains. This practice acknowledges that polishing the entire mouth is not always necessary and can lead to unnecessary wear. The professional judgment of the hygienist is paramount in determining where and how aggressively to use the paste.
Due to its abrasive nature, prophy paste must be avoided or used with caution in specific circumstances. It is generally not recommended for use on newly erupted primary or permanent teeth, as their enamel is not yet fully mineralized. The paste can also damage restorative materials, such as composite fillings or porcelain crowns, by scratching their smooth surfaces. Polishing should also be avoided on exposed dentin or cementum, as this softer tissue can be easily worn away, potentially increasing sensitivity.