Oral prophylaxis cleaning of the teeth by a dentist or dental hygienist, including removal of plaque, materia alba, calculus, and extrinsic stains; done as a preventive measure for control of gingivitis. Called also dental prophylaxis.

The removal of bacterial plaque, calculus, and stains from surfaces of the teeth, primarily by scaling and root planing. It is a preventative measure against gingivitis, halitosis, and periodontal disease.