Tooth polishing

A dental hygienist performing tooth polishing.

Tooth polishing is a dental procedure that involves the smoothing and cleaning of the surfaces of the teeth. It is typically performed by a dental hygienist or dentist as part of a regular dental cleaning session. The primary goal of tooth polishing is to remove plaque, tartar, and superficial stains from the teeth, enhancing their appearance and promoting oral health.

Procedure

Tooth polishing is usually performed after scaling, which is the removal of hardened tartar from the teeth. The polishing process involves the use of a small, soft rubber cup or a brush attached to a slow-speed handpiece. A special prophylaxis paste, which is a gritty substance, is applied to the teeth to aid in the polishing process.

The dental professional will gently move the polishing instrument over the surfaces of the teeth, focusing on areas that are prone to staining or plaque accumulation. The procedure is generally painless and can leave the teeth feeling smooth and clean.

Benefits

Tooth polishing offers several benefits, including:

• Aesthetic improvement: By removing surface stains, tooth polishing can enhance the appearance of the teeth, making them look whiter and brighter.
• Plaque removal: Polishing helps in the removal of plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
• Smooth tooth surfaces: Polished teeth have smoother surfaces, which can make it more difficult for plaque and bacteria to adhere to them.

Considerations

While tooth polishing is beneficial, it is not always necessary for every patient. Some dental professionals may choose to limit polishing to avoid excessive wear on the tooth enamel. Patients with certain dental conditions, such as dentin hypersensitivity, may require special consideration before undergoing tooth polishing.

Related pages

• Dental hygienist
• Dental cleaning
• Plaque
• Tartar
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease