Tooth polishing: Relevance in present day periodontal practice

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology
Original article title: Tooth polishing: Relevance in present day periodontal practice
The Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology (JISP) publishes original scientific articles on periodontology (the study of supporting structures of teeth) and oral implantology. It is a bimonthly open-access journal with special issues for specific occasions.
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Original source:

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Author:

Charu Madan, Rhythm Bains, Vivek K. Bains


Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology:

(A bimonthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Tooth polishing: Relevance in present day periodontal practice

Year: 2009 | Doi: 10.4103/0972-124X.51899

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

In contemporary dental practice, polishing agents are vital for stain removal, often used selectively based on patient needs. The traditional method of polishing with rubber cups and pumice remains prevalent, despite the introduction of more advanced devices such as air powder polishing systems. These modern tools offer improved efficacy and efficiency for supragingival plaque removal, reducing the risks associated with continuous polishing, which can lead to morphological alterations in dental structures.

Glycine Powder Air Polishing: A New Approach

A significant advancement in polishing techniques is the use of Glycine Powder Air Polishing (GPAP), which demonstrates an effective method for removing subgingival biofilm while minimizing gingival erosion. Studies indicate that GPAP reduces the abrasiveness on root surfaces by 80% when compared to traditional hand instrumentation or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) air polishing methods. This innovation not only enhances the cleaning process but also offers a viable alternative to conventional techniques, maintaining oral health without compromising the integrity of tooth structure.

Conclusion

As dental technology evolves, the trend is shifting towards the integration of low abrasive polishing powders, like Glycine, that promote better patient outcomes and reduce the risks associated with traditional methods. The continued use of rubber cups should be balanced with the adoption of advanced air polishing devices to ensure optimal dental hygiene practices. These advancements emphasize the need for selective polishing tailored to individual patient requirements, ultimately contributing to a more effective and safer approach to dental care.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of using rubber cups for tooth polishing?

Rubber cups with polishing paste are economical and widely used in dental practice. They provide effective stain removal while allowing for easier control during the polishing process, reducing the risk of damage to the tooth surface.

How does Glycine Powder Air Polishing differ from sodium bicarbonate air polishing?

Glycine Powder Air Polishing (GPAP) is less abrasive and causes less gingival erosion compared to sodium bicarbonate air polishing. It effectively removes subgingival biofilm while resulting in about 80% less abrasiveness on root surfaces.

What precautions should be taken when using air polishing devices?

Air polishing devices should be used cautiously on patients with restricted sodium diets or those with specific health conditions. Preprocedural rinses and aerosol reduction devices are also recommended to manage potential infection control hazards.

What are the drawbacks of using traditional polishing methods?

Continuous use of traditional rubber cup polishing can cause morphological changes in teeth, including the removal of a layer of cementum. Additionally, overuse may negatively impact the outer enamel layer.

What is the role of non-sodium Prophy Powder in dental polishing?

Non-sodium Prophy Powder, such as those containing aluminum trihydroxide, serves as an alternative to sodium bicarbonate for patients with sodium restrictions, minimizing unwanted systemic absorption while still providing effective polishing.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Tooth polishing: Relevance in present day periodontal practice”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Powder:
Powder refers to the fine abrasive materials used in dental polishing, such as sodium bicarbonate or glycine powder. It plays a crucial role in air polishing devices for effective stain and plaque removal, while also influencing the abrasiveness and safety for dental surfaces, reducing potential damage to hard tissues.

2) Surface:
Surface pertains to the area of the teeth being treated during polishing. Different polishing techniques target various surfaces, including supragingival and subgingival areas. The effectiveness and safety of polishing depend on understanding the surface characteristics and using appropriate tools and materials to avoid damage during the procedure.

3) Hand:
Hand refers to the manual aspect of dental practices, particularly in the use of rubber cups or hand instrumentation for polishing and plaque removal. Hand skills and the application of appropriate pressure and technique are essential to ensure effective cleaning while minimizing trauma to the tooth structure and surrounding tissues.

4) Water:
Water acts as a non-abrasive vehicle in various polishing processes, especially in air polishing devices where it combines with abrasives like sodium bicarbonate for effective stain removal. Its presence helps in cooling the tooth surface, reducing heat generation and protecting soft tissues from injury during dental procedures.

5) Diet:
Diet refers to patients' nutritional intake and restrictions, particularly sodium intake relevant to dental practices. Understanding dietary restrictions informs the choice of dental cleaning materials and techniques, especially for individuals on sodium-restricted diets, ensuring that the selected procedures do not pose health risks or exacerbate existing conditions.

6) Disease:
Disease encompasses various oral and systemic conditions that affect dental health. Specific diseases can limit the use of certain dental polishing techniques, especially those involving air polishing methods that may generate aerosols or require adjustments in treatment protocols to accommodate vulnerable patients safely.

7) Blood:
Blood reference in dental polishing emphasizes the need to monitor for systemic absorption and any potential complications, such as marginal alkalosis in patients with certain conditions. This highlights the importance of considering the overall health status and any implications of dental practices on systemic well-being.

8) Bleeding:
Bleeding indicates potential complications during or after dental polishing, particularly in patients with gingival inflammation or periodontal disease. The ability of polishing methods like air polishing to reduce gingival bleeding represents a significant advantage in improving oral hygiene without exacerbating existing bleeding tendencies in vulnerable populations.

9) Cutting:
Cutting relates to the risk of damaging soft tissues or tooth structures during dental polishing. Certain abrasive techniques, particularly those utilizing strips or excessive pressure, can inadvertently lead to unwanted tissue removal, thereby necessitating careful technique to ensure effective cleaning while preventing harm to surrounding areas.

10) Nature:
Nature relates to the inherent characteristics of dental materials and techniques. Understanding the nature of abrasives and their effects on tooth structure informs clinicians in their choice of polishing agents, ultimately ensuring the safest and most effective procedures tailored to individual patient needs and conditions.

11) Line:
Line refers to the interproximal areas or specific demarcations on the tooth surface that may require precise polishing. Proper attention to line angles during polishing ensures effective cleaning and preservation of tooth integrity while minimizing the risk of damaging adjacent soft tissues or dental restorations.

12) Gold (Golden):
Gold indicates the use of durable restorative materials that can withstand dental polishing without significant alteration. Polishing agents need to be selected carefully to avoid damaging gold restorations while still achieving effective cleaning, highlighting the importance of material compatibility in dental procedures.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Tooth polishing: Relevance in present day periodontal practice’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Cross-contamination, Morphological change, Dental practice, Systemic absorption, Polishing agent.

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