What is denture polishing?

Denture polishing is the final stage of denture fabrication, which involves smoothing and finishing the denture surfaces to enhance the fit, comfort, and aesthetics. It is an essential step to ensure optimal denture function and long-term patient satisfaction. The polishing process removes any remaining roughness, scratches, or sharp edges on the denture, resulting in a smooth and glossy finish.

Polishing helps achieve several important goals:

1. Enhanced Comfort: A smooth denture base and polished surfaces reduce the risk of irritation, discomfort, or soft tissue injury. This is especially crucial for patients who have sensitive oral mucosa.

2. Improved Fit: Polishing helps refine the fit of the denture by eliminating irregularities or uneven areas. A well-polished denture adheres more securely to the underlying tissues, providing better retention and stability.

3. Esthetics: A glossy, polished denture enhances the overall appearance and natural look of the restoration. It helps achieve a seamless integration with the adjacent teeth and improves the patient's confidence and self-esteem.

4. Prevention of Plaque Accumulation: A smooth, polished denture surface makes it less receptive to plaque adherence. Plaque buildup can lead to denture stomatitis, a common inflammatory condition in denture wearers. Polishing helps maintain good oral hygiene and prevents denture-related infections.

5. Durability: A well-polished denture is less susceptible to wear and tear. The smooth surfaces resist abrasion and chipping, promoting longer denture lifespan and overall durability.

Denture polishing involves several steps, including coarse and fine pumice polishing, followed by a final high-shine polishing. The polishing agents and techniques used depend on the type of denture material, which can be acrylic, metal, or flexible.

Proper denture polishing requires skill, experience, and attention to detail. Dental technicians use various rotary instruments, abrasive materials, and polishing discs to achieve the desired smoothness and luster.

To maintain the smooth surface and extend the life of their dentures, patients should practice regular cleaning, including brushing, soaking, and rinsing. Follow-up visits to the dentist or denturist for periodic check-ups and professional polishing are also recommended to ensure optimal denture hygiene and performance.