Polishing Aesthetic Restorations

Distinguishing restorations from tooth enamel is becoming more difficult as aesthetic materials are developed and refined. Polishing restorations means to first identify them, then determine which agent is the best to use for each type. To polish is to recreate a smooth exterior surface after hygiene procedures or after placement of the restoration; this increases its life. A smooth surface aids in the health of soft and hard tissues supporting the tooth and reduces retention of plaque, stain, and calculus. 

Polishing materials should have low abrasion and high polish capabilities. Polishing should progress from more to less abrasive until achieving a shiny surface. Changing rubber cups and points reduces contamination when moving through the different levels of abrasion. Points are used on occlusal surfaces and are available already treated with polishing agents. Regular prophy paste, air polishers, or ultrasonic scalers should not be used with composite resins, which are not resistant to abrasion and are usually polished by the dentist immediately after placement using aluminum oxide disks or pastes. Gold restorations can be polished with brown or green cups or points followed by tin oxide or submicron aluminum oxide. Porcelain veneers and crowns should not be polished with powders, but with special porcelain pastes. Air polishing can pit or remove some cements or resins and is not recommended. 

Implants can be polished with rubber cups and a nonabrasive paste or tin oxide; only plastic or Teflon instruments can be used during the procedure.