National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Can patients at high risk for caries undergo coronal polishing?

1. Yes, it is always safe

2. No, it is contraindicated

3. Only with dentist supervision

4. Only if they have had recent fluoride treatment

The correct answer is: No, it is contraindicated

Coronal polishing is a dental procedure aimed at removing plaque and stains from the coronal surfaces of teeth, usually performed to enhance oral hygiene. However, for patients who are classified as high risk for caries, this procedure may not be advisable. High-risk patients typically exhibit conditions such as rampant decay, dry mouth, significant gingival disease, or other factors that predispose them to carious lesions. The rationale against performing coronal polishing on these patients primarily stems from the potential to remove protective layers and minerals that have built up on the teeth, which can render them more susceptible to caries. Additionally, the use of a rotary instrument involved in the polishing process can cause micro-abrasions and dentin exposure, further increasing the risk of decay in susceptible individuals. In these cases, prioritizing preventive care, such as fluoride treatments, dietary counseling, and enhanced home care, is essential to manage their heightened risk for developing caries. Therefore, it is prudent to avoid coronal polishing in these patients, making the correct answer to the question that it is contraindicated.