What distinguishes a prophylaxis from a deep cleaning?

Prophylaxis is primarily aimed at preventive care, which is its defining characteristic. This procedure involves the removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from the teeth, typically performed on patients who have healthy gums and are not experiencing significant periodontal disease. The goal of a prophylaxis is to maintain oral health and prevent the onset of dental issues.

In contrast, deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure designed for patients with periodontal disease. It focuses on cleaning below the gum line to remove tartar and bacteria that contribute to inflammation and infection of the gums. This distinction in purpose underscores why prophylaxis is categorized as preventive care. Additionally, prophylaxis may sometimes include fluoride treatments as part of the visit, but that alone does not set it apart from deep cleaning. The frequency of both procedures, while important, does not define their differences as clearly as their intended purposes do.