What is the primary purpose of coronal polishing?

The primary purpose of coronal polishing is to remove stains from tooth surfaces. This procedure is an important part of preventive dental care, as it helps to improve the appearance of the teeth by eliminating extrinsic stains caused by food, beverages, tobacco, and plaque accumulation. By focusing on the outer surface of the teeth, coronal polishing not only enhances aesthetics but also helps to smooth the enamel, making it more difficult for plaque to stick to the teeth in the future.

Understanding the context of coronal polishing emphasizes its role in dental hygiene rather than treatment procedures such as preparing teeth for fillings or addressing issues in periodontal pockets. While those processes are crucial in their own right, they serve different purposes compared to the cosmetic and preventive focus of coronal polishing. Additionally, coronal polishing has no impact on tooth alignment, which is a separate concern addressed through orthodontics.