National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

What is a contraindication for coronal polishing?

1. Presence of heavy calculus

2. Recent dental surgery

3. Thin demineralized enamel

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Thin demineralized enamel

In the context of coronal polishing, thin demineralized enamel is considered a contraindication because the procedure involves the use of abrasive materials that could further damage already weakened enamel. Coronal polishing is designed to remove plaque and stains from the surface of the teeth using a rubber cup and polishing paste. When enamel is demineralized, it is more susceptible to erosion and abrasion, making it essential to avoid such treatments that could exacerbate the condition. The other conditions mentioned, such as the presence of heavy calculus or recent dental surgery, typically require different types of dental interventions rather than being direct contraindications for polishing. Heavy calculus should be addressed through scaling before polishing can be safely performed. Recent dental surgery might necessitate caution, but it does not outright prohibit coronal polishing unless specific healing guidelines indicate otherwise. Therefore, thin demineralized enamel stands out as the situation that directly jeopardizes the integrity of the tooth structure when subjected to the polishing process.