Coronal Polish Certification Practice Test

Which instrument is commonly used to polish the occlusal surface?

1. Whitening strips

2. Prophy brushes

3. Dental scalers

4. Ultrasonic cleaners

The correct answer is: Prophy brushes

Prophy brushes are specifically designed for polishing and cleaning the surfaces of teeth, including the occlusal surfaces. These brushes attach to a dental handpiece and spin at a high speed, allowing for effective removal of plaque and stains from the tooth enamel. The bristles are soft and safe for use on teeth, enabling dental professionals to achieve a smooth and shiny finish that contributes to overall oral hygiene. Whitening strips, although they may be used for aesthetic improvement, are not tools for polishing teeth and do not provide the same level of cleaning as prophy brushes. Dental scalers are primarily used for removing tartar and plaque from the teeth, particularly from below the gum line, rather than for polishing. Ultrasonic cleaners serve a completely different purpose by using high-frequency vibrations to clean dental instruments and items rather than engaging in the polishing of teeth. Thus, prophy brushes stand out as the appropriate instrument for polishing occlusal surfaces in dental practices.