During coronal polishing, which cup technique helps prevent tissue injury?

During coronal polishing, which cup technique helps prevent tissue injury?

• A. Light, intermittent pressure with a flexible cup
• B. Heavy, constant pressure with a rigid cup
• C. No contact with soft tissues
• D. Using a bristle brush

Answer: (A)

Light, intermittent pressure with a flexible cup is the technique that minimizes tissue injury during coronal polishing. The gentle contact and the cup’s flexibility let the abrasive paste clean enamel while adapting to tooth contours and avoiding prolonged pressure on the gingiva, reducing frictional heat that can injure soft tissues. In contrast, heavy, constant pressure with a rigid cup increases friction and heat, raising the risk of tissue irritation or burns. Complete avoidance of soft-tissue contact isn’t practical for polishing, and a bristle brush isn’t the standard method for coronal polishing because it can be too abrasive and harder to control.

Light, intermittent pressure with a flexible cup is the technique that minimizes tissue injury during coronal polishing. The gentle contact and the cup’s flexibility let the abrasive paste clean enamel while adapting to tooth contours and avoiding prolonged pressure on the gingiva, reducing frictional heat that can injure soft tissues. In contrast, heavy, constant pressure with a rigid cup increases friction and heat, raising the risk of tissue irritation or burns. Complete avoidance of soft-tissue contact isn’t practical for polishing, and a bristle brush isn’t the standard method for coronal polishing because it can be too abrasive and harder to control.