When should the polishing procedure be avoided?

The polishing procedure should be avoided when there are open areas of decay or active periodontal disease because these conditions indicate that the teeth and surrounding tissues are not in a healthy state. Polishing can potentially aggravate these issues, especially in the case of active decay, as it may create further damage to the affected areas. Additionally, polishing can inadvertently introduce bacteria into periodontal pockets in patients with active periodontal disease, worsening the infection. Therefore, addressing the underlying dental health problems is essential before performing any cosmetic procedures like polishing to ensure the patient's overall oral health is prioritized.