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A member asked:
During a teeth cleaning, what is that substance that the dentist put on? it's like grainy. toxic if swallowed?
3 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Prophy paste: It is basically toothpaste, but usually much more coarse. It is very effective at removing surface stains and usually is fluoridated as well.
Answered 11/8/2013
4.8k views
Prophy paste: The graininess in this paste is pumice. Pumice is used to clean and polish. It is not harmful to swallow, but it won't taste great.
Answered 11/8/2013
4.8k views
Non toxic: Toxic materials would not be used orally by a dentist. It is the polishing paste. It comes in different grits - fine, medium or coarse. The heavier the staining the coarser the grit is needed. The grit comes from the pumice that is incorporated in the prophy paste. Hope this helps.
Answered 11/8/2013
4.8k views
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