Posted by MyRDH on Monday, July 21st, 2025 - 418 views
When it comes to professional teeth cleaning, there’s a term called “coronal polishing” which refers to a dental procedure that removes plaque and stains from the crown of the tooth.
The crown of the tooth is the visible part that is above the gum-line. It’s covered by enamel that protects the underlying dentin and pulp. It’s responsible for chewing and biting. In dental procedures like coronal polishing, only this exposed part is cleaned to remove plaque and stains.
Coronal polishing is not a standalone dental treatment. It’s usually a part of a broader dental cleaning or preventive care appointment and is is commonly done together with other oral hygiene procedures.
If coronal polishing is not regularly done, it can cause severe dental issues that allow plaque and tartar to build up and lead to potential problems.
Here’s what can happen to teeth without regular coronal polishing and proper dental cleanings:
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Gingivitis and gum disease
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Staining and discolouration
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Increased risk for systemic health issues
And neglecting those issues it usually worse problems and starts affecting a person’s overall health.
Over time, the inevitable end result of neglecting these issues can and usually do include:
- Tooth loss
- Severe gum disease (Periodontitis)
- Extensive tooth damage
- Chronic oral infections
- Systemic health complications
- Aesthetic and functional decline
- Other expensive and invasive treatments
One major aspect of the above list are systemic health complications which we covered in this article about the healthy benefits of teeth cleaning.
Is Coronal Polishing for Everyone?
Coronal polishing is not necessarily for everyone and depends on individual dental health needs which are determined by your hygienist. Although it can benefit children, adults, and seniors, certain conditions and circumstances can make it unsuitable or unnecessary for certain people.
Who May Need to Avoid Coronal Polishing?
Coronal polishing is most beneficial for patients who have healthy teeth and gums, but it may need to be avoided in people with tooth sensitivity, advanced gum disease, or certain dental restorations like crowns, veneers, and composite fillings, and is usually avoided to prevent damage or scratching.
A hygienist’s evaluation will determine if it’s right for an individual, regardless of age.
Some examples of situations where coronal polishing should be avoided are:
- Severe gum disease (Periodontitis)
- Tooth sensitivity
- Dental restorations
- Orthodontic appliances
- Young children with minimal plaque/stains
- Certain medical conditions
The coronal polishing treatment is suitable for many people but not always required. It’s most beneficial for those with plaque or stains but generally have healthy teeth and gums.
If a person does not have generally healthy teeth and gums, this has to be addressed first before coronal polishing becomes appropriate. It’s primarily a preventive and cosmetic procedure that may be unsuitable or less effective in the presence of other active oral health problems.
If My Teeth Are Bad, How Long Do I Have to Wait?
With consistent oral care, most people can achieve healthy teeth and gums within a few months to a year, depending on the severity of their issues. Once a dentist confirms that your gums are stable and the cavities are treated, coronal polishing can be safely incorporated into regular routine cleanings for maintenance and aesthetics.
For a personalized plan, just consult with your local dental hygienist to assess your specific conditions and guide you toward optimal oral health.
