For prophy, both low- and high-speed dental handpieces may be used depending upon their function and action performed.
Dentists attach a prophy brush or cup to a low-speed handpiece to assist with polishing teeth and restorations. Together, these tools will be joined by prophy paste to even out surface irregularities and lessen the appearance of stains.
A high-speed handpiece may be used in conjunction with a prophy jet. A type of air abrasion polishing system, a prophy jet delivers water, air and bicarbonate or another substance toward the teeth to get rid of plaque and staining. In the process, this procedure creates a smoother surface in less time and with less abrasion compared to prophy cups and brushes.