The preservation of the integrity and aesthetics of the dental restorations constitutes an important component of long-term dental health care. No matter what kind of composite filling, a veneer, crown, or bridge is done, the last step in the process of any restorative dentistry is the polishing. Finishing and polishing not only help to improve the aesthetic look of the restorations but also make them more durable, functional as well and biocompatible.
One of the most essential tools in this process is dental polishers. They are special tools that polish and perfect the contours of the restorations, so that they stick to the mouth as such and become practically unnoticeable to the eye, compared to similar teeth.
The Importance of Polishing in Dentistry
Polishing does not refer to a cosmetic procedure. The essentiality of a well-polished surface is due to several reasons;
Plaque resistant: There is less chance of plaque accumulation, allowing patients to keep their mouth clean.
- Makes it aesthetic: A restored area at the end of finishing resembles natural enamel and makes the entire depiction more aesthetic.
- Decreases wear: Surface roughness is kept minimal and so there is no unnecessary wear of the restoration and opposing teeth.
- Improves life span: When the polishing is properly done, then there are minimal chances that the surface will crack, even when worn.
During polishing, missing or taking shortcuts may give coarse surfaces, poor restorations, and a probability of repair or substitution.
Types of Dental Polishers and Their Applications
Dental polishers come in various shapes, materials, and abrasiveness levels, each tailored for specific tasks and restorative materials. By selecting the appropriate polisher to complete the task, the results are ideal.
- Silicone polishers: Silicone polishers are very useful, although usually restricted to composite and ceramic materials because they are available in a large range of grits.
- Diamond polishers: This is the best surface polisher to use and gives the best smooth and high-gloss finish on hard surfaces such as zirconia and porcelain.
- Rubber polishers: These polishers can be used to polish both metal as well as ceramics and can either be on lab work or final adjustments that one does at the chairside.
Modern dental polishers are often used in multi-step systems, starting with coarser grits for initial shaping and ending with ultra-fine polishers for a high-luster shine.
Best Practices of Successful Polishing
It not only takes the right tools to be able to achieve that smooth and glossy restoration surface, but also the technique and the consistency in doing this.
- Have a multi-step process: begin with contouring bur followed by intermediate finishing polishes, and conclude by using fine polishers.
- Apply light, controlled pressure: The more pressure is applied, the more harm it may cause to both the restoration and to the polishing tool.
- Keep the surface wet: The lubrication prevents the overheating of the surface and cracks.
- Make compatibility: Match the polishers with the restorative material; otherwise, they will fluff off or become scratched.
These practices, when used consistently, will lead to superior restorations that not only have a better look but are also durable, to the benefit of the patient as well as the dental professional.
Conclusion
Polishing plays a very important role in restorative dentistry, which directly influences patient satisfaction, the quality of restoration, and the long-term success of the restoration. By using the proper dental polishers for each type of material and procedure, dental professionals can enhance the function and appearance of every restoration.
The positive effects of polishing on the looks of a structure are not the only benefits of polishing; the procedure also aids in oral health and structural integrity. By ensuring that you buy high-quality polishers and improve your polishing skills, you will be able to guarantee that all the restorations receive the utmost care.
