Chapter 25 Coronal Polishing Study Guide

Coronal Polishing

A procedure performed for cosmetic purposes to remove extrinsic stains using a dental handpiece, rubber cup, brush, and floss, or air-powder polishing; it does not replace instrumentation and is not considered an oral prophylaxis.

Contraindications to Coronal Polishing

Clinical situations where polishing should be avoided or modified, including acute gingival infection, communicable disease, orthodontic appliances, hypersensitive teeth, green chromogenic bacteria stain, minor oral irritations, respiratory conditions, restorations, and newly erupted teeth.

Intrinsic Stain

A permanent stain located inside the tooth structure, with common examples being dental fluorosis, tetracycline stain, and darkening.

Extrinsic Stain

A stain located on the outside of the teeth that can be removed by instrumentation and polishing, commonly including yellow stains, green, black line, tobacco, and betel leaf.

Rubber Prophy Cup

A polishing attachment mounted on a handpiece (via latch-type or screw-on angles) utilized to polish the teeth.

Air-Powder Polishing

A polishing method utilizing special equipment and a handpiece with a nozzle attachment along with abrasive powder to remove biofilm and extrinsic stains.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

A liquid formulation composed of $38\%$ SDF ($25\%$ silver ion, $5\%$ fluoride ion, and $8\%$ ammonia) and $32\%$ water, containing $44,800\,\text{ppm}$ of fluoride (about double the concentration of varnish).

Silver Ion (in SDF)

The active component in silver diamine fluoride that acts as an antimicrobial agent and provides substantivity.

Ammonia (in SDF)

The chemical component in the silver diamine fluoride solution that acts as a stabilizer.

Fluoride (in SDF)

The active mineral component in silver diamine fluoride that assists in remineralization.