What does prophylaxis mean in dentistry?

Prophylaxis dentally: Basically means a dental cleaning (scaling and polishing).

Tooth Cleaning: Tooth cleaning is referred to as prophylaxis or prophy. The reason for the name is that it's done to "prevent" or minimize chances of tooth disease.

Cleaning: Basically, prophylaxis means prevention. A dental prophylaxi is a cleaning above the gumline which is done by the dentist or the dental hygienist. A prophylaxis is ususally recommended every 6 months along with a dental examination at your dentist's office.

Cleaning: Prophylaxis refers to cleaning of the teeth. Which involves removing bacterial deposits above the gum line an generally includes polishing the teeth.

Dental cleaning: In dentistry, prophylaxis usually refers to the cleaning of the teeth. A dental prophylaxis is a routine preventive cleaning of the debris, plaque and calculus that builds up on the teeth and slightly below the gums, in order to promote good oral health and prevent periodontal disease and cavities. Prophylaxis can also refer to 'antibiotic prophylaxis'.

Teeth cleaning: In dentistry it means (disease prevention). It is cleaning of the teeth by a dentist or dental hygienist, including removal of plaque, tartar, and extrinsic stains; done as a preventive measure for control of gingivitis.

Two Answers: The first definatiion of prophylaxis would be a teeth cleaning for a healthy person (without gum disease). The second would be the prescription and use of antibiotics prior to dental appointment where an invasive procedure would be performed on patients with certain specific medical issues (heart valve disease, artificial joints, artificial heart valves, immune system disorders) for their safety.

Other meaning: Antibiotic prophylaxis is a term used in dentistry as well. It involves administering antibiotics before a procedure to protect artificial joints or compromised hearts from systemic bacteremia that can be caused from dentistry.