Dental prophylaxis pastes are indicated for cleaning and polishing teeth as part of a professionally administered prophylaxis treatment as described in the classification regulation for “oral cavity abrasive polishing agents” in the Code of Federal Regulations 21 CFR 872.6030. Identification. An oral cavity abrasive polishing agent is a device in paste or powder form that contains an abrasive material, such as silica pumice, intended to remove debris from the teeth. The abrasive polish is applied to the teeth by a handpiece attachment (prophylaxis cup).

Some prophylaxis pastes have also been cleared to include the indication for use “immediate relief of tooth sensitivity, pre and post -scaling and root planning.”