History and Equipment of Tooth Polishing
- Tooth polishing dates back to Roman and Greek times
- Pierre Fauchard introduced tooth polishing to remove dental stains
- Early polishing pastes consisted of finely ground coral, egg shells, ginger, or salt
- Alfred Fones educated students on coronal tooth polishing
- Full mouth polishing was common practice until the 1990s to 2000s
- Prophylactic paste contains abrasives of varying size, shape, and hardness
- Prophylactic paste is available in fine, medium, coarse, and super-coarse grits
- Rubber cups, also known as prophy cups, are used with polishing paste
- Bristle brushes are used in the prophylaxis angle with polishing paste
- Prophy angle is the most commonly used tool for tooth polishing

Selective Polishing and Extrinsic Stain
- Current evidence suggests that tooth polishing should be based on individual needs
- Previously, tooth polishing was provided at every hygiene appointment
- Ethical dilemma exists regarding whether tooth polishing should be routine
- Prophylactic polishing is only necessary when extrinsic stain is present
- Patient expectations have influenced the debate on tooth polishing
- Discoloration of the enamel can be caused by factors such as food and beverages
- Chromogenic bacteria in plaque can also cause staining
- Smoking, antimicrobial rinses, and exposure to metallic dust can lead to extrinsic staining
- Prophylactic polishing can remove most extrinsic stains
- Proximal surfaces of teeth can be polished using dental tape

Adverse Effects and Benefits of Tooth Polishing
- Tooth polishing may remove the outer layer of enamel
- Saliva and fluoride in polishing pastes can assist in remineralizing the enamel
- Restorations may be damaged by conventional tooth polishing
- Soft tissues can be traumatised by improper technique or prior inflammation
- Aerosols produced during tooth polishing can transmit infectious diseases and contaminate surfaces
- Removes surface stains
- Enhances the appearance of teeth
- Improves oral hygiene
- Helps prevent tooth decay
- Promotes fresh breath

Tools and Techniques Used in Tooth Polishing
- Dental handpiece
- Prophylaxis paste
- Rubber cup or bristle brush
- Air polishing device
- Fluoride varnish

Safety Measures and Considerations for Different Patient Groups
- Proper infection control protocols
- Use of protective eyewear
- Adequate suction to prevent aspiration
- Regular maintenance of dental equipment
- Proper disposal of waste materials
- Children: Use of flavored prophylaxis paste
- Pregnant women: Avoidance of certain abrasive materials
- Patients with sensitive teeth: Use of desensitizing agents
- Elderly patients: Gentle technique to prevent gum irritation
- Patients with dental restorations: Careful polishing around restorations

Potential Risks and Limitations of Tooth Polishing
- Gingival irritation or bleeding
- Temporary tooth sensitivity
- Risk of aerosol production
- Limited effectiveness on deep stains
- Inability to remove certain types of stains (e.g., intrinsic stains)