Module 1- Types of Stains

What is Coronal Polishing?

• Removes extrinsic stains

• Smooths tooth surface

• Improves appearance

• Done by certified dental assistant

Prophylaxis vs. Coronal Polish

Dental Prophylaxis

• Removes calculus, plaque, and stains

• Done by dentist/hygienist

• Full cleaning

Coronal Polishing Indications: Suggestion that Coronal Polish should be done

Purpose of Coronal Polishing

• Smooth tooth surface — reduces plaque, calculus & stain

• Removes extrinsic stains

• Enhances fluoride absorption

• Before sealants, dental dam, or orthodontic bands

• Before acid etching, crowns, or bridges

• Removes residue from temporary cements

Contraindications Of Coronal Polishing

Avoid polishing when....

• Newly erupted teeth: enamel not fully hardened—avoid abrasive paste.

• Exposed cementum: softer than enamel and easily damaged.

• Gingival tissue: high speed or long contact can cause irritation.

• Restorations: abrasive paste can scratch gold, composites, acrylics, and porcelain.

Coronal Polishing Contraindications

Don't polish:

• No stain
• New teeth
• Demineralized enamel
• Root exposure

Selective Polishing

• Polish only teeth or areas with visible stains

• Prevents unnecessary enamel and fluoride loss

• Use the least abrasive paste possible

• Choose what’s best for patient comfort and outcome

Types of Stains: Click on each icon to reveal key terms & definitions

Extrinsic Located: Outside the tooth Removable Example: Coffee or Tobacco

Exogenous Located: External source Removable? Varies Example: Food or drink

Endogenous Located: Within developing tooth Not removable Example: Tetracycline

Intrinsic Located: Inside the tooth Not Removable Example: Fluorosis or Pulpless teeth

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Knowledge Check

What is an intrinsic stain?

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An intrinsic stain is a discoloration that occurs inside the tooth structure and cannot be removed by polishing because it is within the enamel or dentin. Example: stains caused by trauma, certain medications (like tetracycline), or excessive fluoride during tooth development.

Intrinsic Stains

Dental Fluorosis

Silver Amalgam

Tetracucline Stain

• Appears as a gray or black discoloration surrounding a restoration.

• This occurs when metallic ions from the amalgam leach into the enamel and dentin, causing permanent intrinsic staining.

• Occurs when the antibiotic tetracycline is taken during tooth development.

• The medication binds to calcium, causing yellow, gray, or brown discoloration that becomes permanent within the tooth structure.

• Results from excessive fluoride intake during enamel formation.

• Appears as white spots, streaks, or brown discoloration on the tooth surface but does not affect tooth strength.

Extrinsic Stains

Brown or yellow stain

Tobacco Stain

Black Stain

• Caused by natural tendencies, this stain appears as a black line near the gingival margin.

• It is more common in females, often found in otherwise clean mouths, and can be difficult to remove.

• Commonly found on the buccal surfaces of maxillary molars and the lingual surfaces of lower anterior teeth.

• These stains are often caused by poor oral hygiene, with calculus discolored by foods, beverages, hormonal changes, diabetes, or other medical conditions.

• A dark brown or black stain commonly found on the lingual surfaces and interproximal areas. It is caused by coal tar and other byproducts in tobacco, as well as the penetration of smoke into pits, fissures, enamel, and dentin.

• Use of any tobacco-containing products can lead to staining on both teeth and restorations.

Knowledge Check

What kind of stains can coronal polishing remove?

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Coronal polishing can remove extrinsic stains, which are stains on the outer surface of the teeth.

Disclosing Agent

• Used to reveal plaque on teeth

• Helps patients see missed areas

• Great for teaching proper brushing

Course Complete! Great work! You’ve completed this module.