Which patients are most likely to exhibit staining that requires coronal polishing?

The most likely patients to exhibit staining that necessitates coronal polishing are those who smoke or drink coffee, as well as those undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Patients who smoke are frequently exposed to tobacco tar, which can cause noticeable discoloration of the teeth. Similarly, coffee and other beverages such as red wine and tea are known to contribute to extrinsic staining. These dietary habits lead to the accumulation of stain on the tooth surface, making coronal polishing an important procedure to restore aesthetics.

Additionally, patients undergoing orthodontic treatment often experience similar staining issues due to the brackets and wires that can trap plaque and food particles, making it more difficult to maintain optimal oral hygiene. This can lead to localized staining around the appliances. Coronal polishing helps to remove these stains and ensure a cleaner, more attractive dentition after braces are removed.

Thus, both smoking or drinking coffee and orthodontic treatment can lead to tooth staining, justifying the identification of these groups as requiring coronal polishing.