Coronal Polish Certification Practice Test

What types of stains can be effectively removed by coronal polishing?

1. Intrinsic

2. Extrinsic

3. Both intrinsic and extrinsic

4. Surface stains

The correct answer is: Extrinsic

Coronal polishing is particularly effective at removing extrinsic stains, which are the surface stains that typically result from external factors such as food, beverages, tobacco, and poor oral hygiene. These stains are found on the enamel's surface and can usually be eliminated with a polishing agent during the coronal polishing procedure. Extrinsic stains differ from intrinsic stains, which are embedded within the tooth structure itself, often due to factors like fluoride exposure during tooth development, dental trauma, or certain medications taken during childhood. Because intrinsic stains are located deeper in the tooth and are not merely on the surface, they cannot be effectively removed through coronal polishing, which is designed for treatment of only the outer layer of the tooth. Therefore, understanding the distinction between these types of stains helps clarify why extrinsic stains are the target of coronal polishing efforts, confirming that coronal polishing is primarily aimed at improving the aesthetics of the tooth surface by eliminating those visible and extrinsic discolorations.