At Practice 32, your trusted hygiene-only dental practice in Colorado Springs, we prioritize preventive dental care to ensure your oral health remains in top condition. A key component of our services is coronal polishing, a procedure designed to remove extrinsic stains and plaque from the tooth surface, enhancing both the appearance and health of your teeth. Understanding the various polishing and cleansing agents available is essential for tailoring treatments to individual needs.
Coronal polishing has a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations where materials like ground coral and eggshells were used to clean teeth. Over time, the focus shifted from purely aesthetic concerns to recognizing the role of polishing in maintaining oral health. Today, selective polishing is practiced, meaning only teeth with visible stains are polished to preserve enamel integrity.
It’s important to distinguish between polishing and cleansing agents:
Choosing the appropriate polishing agent involves several considerations to ensure both effectiveness and patient comfort:
Flavor plays a significant role in patient experience. While mint has been a traditional choice, a variety of flavors such as pina colada, sugar cookie, grape, and vanilla cupcake are now available to cater to diverse preferences.
It’s crucial to be aware of any patient allergies or sensitivities to ingredients like certain flavors, dyes, or additives. For instance, some individuals may have reactions to gluten, nuts, or milk proteins. Thoroughly reviewing medical histories helps in selecting safe and comfortable options.
The grit of a polishing agent determines its abrasiveness:
In cases without extrinsic stains, using a cleansing agent is advisable to avoid unnecessary enamel wear.
Some polishing agents include additives like fluoride or amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) to aid in remineralization and reduce dentinal hypersensitivity. While beneficial, these should complement, not replace, other preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish applications.
Modern technology has introduced ergonomic and efficient tools to enhance the polishing process:
Devices like the Nupro Freedom® Cordless Prophy System offer improved maneuverability and reduced noise, enhancing both clinician comfort and patient experience. These handpieces allow for intuitive control of speed and pressure, adapting to the specific needs of each tooth surface.
Innovations such as the Nupro Revolv Slim Disposable Prophy Angles feature a more slender neck and shorter head, providing better access and visibility during polishing. These designs help in reducing splatter and improving overall efficiency.
Maintaining strict infection control protocols is paramount. Handpieces should be sterilized between patients to prevent cross-contamination. Adhering to guidelines from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ensures patient safety and upholds the highest standards of care.
At Practice 32, we are committed to providing personalized and preventive dental care. By carefully selecting the appropriate polishing or cleansing agents and utilizing advanced equipment, we aim to enhance your oral health while ensuring a comfortable and positive experience. Regular dental cleanings, tailored to your individual needs, play a vital role in maintaining a healthy, radiant smile.
For more information or to schedule your next dental cleaning, contact Practice 32 in Colorado Springs. Our dedicated team is here to support your journey toward optimal oral health.
Olivia and her team are amazing. This was my 2nd visit to Practice 32 and their welcoming environment, coupled with their professional dental care make it very easy for me to highly recommend them.
