What is a common extrinsic stain that can be effectively removed with coronal polishing?

Tobacco stains are considered a common extrinsic stain that can be effectively removed through coronal polishing. These stains accumulate on the surface of the teeth due to the use of tobacco products and are typically noted for their dark, yellowish-brown appearance. Coronal polishing involves using a rotating rubber cup with a polishing paste to remove plaque and extrinsic stains from the tooth surfaces, making it a suitable technique for addressing tobacco-related discoloration.

In the context of the options, coffee stains also form part of the extrinsic stains category, as they adhere to the enamel from dietary sources. However, the selection of tobacco stains emphasizes a well-recognized issue with dental discoloration that is particularly prevalent in individuals who use tobacco. Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, come from within the tooth structure and cannot be removed by polishing; they often require other forms of treatment such as whitening procedures. Fluorosis stains, which are caused by excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, are also intrinsic in nature and not removable through coronal polishing.

By identifying tobacco stains as a common target for coronal polishing, this highlights the procedure’s efficacy in managing certain external stains that affect aesthetic appearance while underscoring the limits of polishing for intrinsic staining issues.