Coronal Polish Certification Practice Test

The most common types of stains removed by coronal polishing are extrinsic stains, specifically those from substances like coffee, tea, and tobacco. These stains are located on the outer surface of the teeth and form due to regular consumption of certain foods and drinks that are high in tannins and pigments.

During the coronal polishing procedure, a dental hygienist or practitioner uses a special polishing paste and a rotating rubber cup to effectively remove these surface stains, helping to improve the aesthetics of a patient's smile. This process is crucial for maintaining tooth appearance as well as promoting oral health.

Other types of stains, such as intrinsic stains caused by factors like excessive fluoride exposure or stains from dental procedures, are typically not addressed with coronal polishing. These intrinsic stains are often situated within the tooth structure and may require different treatment methods, such as whitening procedures or cosmetic dentistry, rather than just a cleaning procedure like coronal polishing. Stains from food coloring additives can also be classified as extrinsic but are less commonly targeted specifically compared to the more prevalent staining from coffee, tea, and tobacco.