Which technique best minimizes unnecessary enamel removal during coronal polishing?

• A. Using coarse paste with heavy pressure
• B. Prolonged polishing at high speed
• C. Frequently overlapping strokes with strong force
• D. Using fine paste with intermittent, light pressure

Answer: (D)

Preserving enamel during coronal polishing comes from using a gentle abrasive and light, intermittent contact. A fine paste has smaller abrasive particles, so it polishes with less aggressive material removal than a coarse paste, helping keep enamel intact while still producing a smooth surface. Intermittent, light pressure reduces friction and heat, which lowers the risk of enamel wear and avoids creating scratches or grooves. In contrast, heavy pressure, high speed, or long polishing sessions with strong force increase abrasive action and heat, accelerating enamel loss. Overlapping strokes with force concentrate wear in one area. So, using a fine paste with brief, light, intermittent pressure best minimizes unnecessary enamel removal while effectively polishing.