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Published on: February 2, 2018
Repetitive coronal polishing yields minimal enamel loss
Sandra D Pence1, Doyle A Chambers, Ian G van Tets
1Dental Hygiene Program, University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK, USA.
Journal of Dental Hygiene : JDH
|February 8, 2012
Summary
Dental polishing may remove enamel, but the amount is clinically insignificant. However, root abrasion occurred in some molars, suggesting caution and further investigation into alternative stain removal methods.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- The American Dental Hygienists' Association advises selective polishing due to potential enamel removal and unproven therapeutic benefits.
- Previous studies on enamel loss from polishing have yielded inconsistent results and used non-clinical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of simulated lifetime dental polishing on enamel thickness.
- To compare enamel loss from polishing to minimal enamel thickness at the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) for clinical relevance.
Main Methods:
- Premolars and molars were subjected to 150 polishing cycles with coarse prophy paste.
- Pre- and post-polishing enamel thickness was measured using micrometers; control groups were unpolished.
- Digital radiography determined average minimal enamel thickness coronal to the CEJ.
Main Results:
- Premolars showed a significant increase in measurement difference after polishing compared to controls; molars did not.
- Neither group exhibited significant enamel abrasion relative to minimal thickness.
- Root abrasion was observed on 5 molars.
Conclusions:
- While polishing can remove enamel, the quantity is unlikely to be clinically significant.
- Observed root abrasion on molars is concerning, particularly for exposed root surfaces with stain.
- Further research into alternative stain removal techniques is recommended.
