Prophy vs Periodontal Maintenance: What’s the Real Difference?
What’s the Difference Between Periodontal Maintenance and Prophy?
East Orlando Dental Explains the Key Differences in Dental Cleanings
If you’re searching for dental cleanings in East Orlando, you’ve probably come across terms like prophy and periodontal maintenance. While they both involve cleaning your teeth, they are very different treatments designed for different oral health needs.
At East Orlando Dental, we want our patients to understand the difference so you can get the right care for a healthy, confident smile.
🦷 What Is a Prophy (Dental Prophylaxis)?
A prophy, short for prophylaxis, is a routine dental cleaning designed for patients with healthy gums and no history of gum disease.
A prophy includes:
- Removal of plaque and tartar above the gumline
- Polishing to remove surface stains
- Dental exam to check for cavities, gum issues, and more
🗓️ Recommended every six months. It is a preventive treatment that helps you avoid gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
🦷 What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning type for patients treated for gum disease through scaling and root planing (deep cleaning).
Gum disease is a chronic condition — just like high blood pressure or diabetes—and needs to be managed with ongoing professional care.
Periodontal maintenance includes:
- Deep cleaning above and below the gumline
- Removal of bacteria and debris from periodontal pockets
- Monitoring gum attachment and bone levels
- Possible use of antimicrobials or localized medication
🗓️ Usually done every 3–4 months, periodontal maintenance helps prevent the return of periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and other serious issues.
🧠 Why It Matters: Prophy vs. Periodontal Maintenance
Many patients think a cleaning is just a cleaning, but using the wrong type can cause long-term issues.
- Prophy is for patients with healthy gums
- Periodontal maintenance is for those with gum disease history
If you’ve had periodontal treatment in the past, switching back to regular cleaning too soon can allow infection to return and worsen.
✅ How Do I Know Which One I Need?
At East Orlando Dental, we perform a full evaluation before your cleaning. Our experienced team checks your gums, bone levels, and overall oral health to determine if you need preventive care (prophy) or therapeutic care (periodontal maintenance).
🏥 Schedule Your Dental Cleaning in East Orlando Today!
Whether you’re due for a regular dental cleaning or need ongoing care for gum disease, we’re here to help. At East Orlando Dental, we offer:
✔️ Comprehensive exams
✔️ Gentle, effective cleanings
✔️ Personalized care plans for your smile
📍 Located in East Orlando
📞 Call us today at (407) 282 2101
🌐 Book online at www.eastorlandodental.com
