Introduction

Teeth polishing is a common dental procedure, often performed following a dental cleaning. Using specialized equipment, dentists or hygienists remove stains and discolorations from your teeth and smooth them out to provide a glossy, attractive finish.¹ It’s typically a painless, well-tolerated procedure.

Teeth polishing is primarily done for cosmetic reasons, applying the “finishing touches” to enhance appearance. That said, it can also be used to help with exposed roots due to dental surgery. While it was once a part of every cleaning, current guidelines stress that it be applied more selectively because it can affect the outer layers of tooth enamel.  This article provides a quick overview of this important procedure, including its benefits and aftercare.