Prophy-Jet: Effect on Surface Roughness and Plaque Accumulation on Restorative Materials.

The aims of this study were to compare surface roughness changes following treatment with a rubber with a rubber cup using a medium grit prophylaxis paste and a Prophy-Jet on six different restorative materials and also to compare differences in plaque accumulation produced by these treatments. Samples made from six different materials had one end treated with a rubber cup and the other end with a Prophy-Jet with the center third acting as a control. Surface profile tracings were done on the two treatment areas and on the control surface and roughness data recorded for arithmetic average roughness and average maximum peak height roughness. The information from this study seems to suggest that operators should consider repolishing restorations of microfilled and hybrid composite resins and glass ionomer restorative materials following prophylaxis of any type. When considered in light of the potential convenience and ease of use of the Prophy-Jet, these findings do not seem to provide justification for condemning its general usage based on its effect upon restorative materials and subsequent plaque accumulation. Caution in its use upon selected materials would seem to be in order.