What is the effect of saliva during the polishing procedure?

During the polishing procedure, the presence of saliva can significantly influence the effectiveness of the process. Saliva acts as a lubricant, but it also dilutes the polishing paste, which can inhibit its ability to clean the tooth surface effectively. The dilution reduces the concentration of abrasives and other active components in the polishing paste that are crucial for removing plaque and stains.

When saliva mixes with the polishing paste, it can alter the intended texture and consistency, potentially making it less effective in achieving the desired polishing results. The polishing agent needs to maintain its efficacy to effectively remove biofilm and stain, and saliva’s dilution can compromise that goal. Therefore, understanding this interaction is vital for ensuring optimal results during coronal polishing.