Procedures, condensed

Maxillary: supine, chin up. Mandibular: semi-reclined, chin down. Right-handed operators work 8–12 o'clock (left-handed 12–4), back straight, mouth at elbow height. Handpiece in a pen grasp; ring finger fulcrum on stable tooth structure near the work — purpose: stability and control.

Cup filled with moist paste, edge flared slightly at the gingival margin, light intermittent pressure, sweeping overlapping strokes from gingival third toward incisal/occlusal, seconds per tooth — lift, refill, move. Follow a systematic sequence. Finish: floss every contact, rinse thoroughly.

Polish only surfaces with stain/plaque that warrant it — every polish removes fluoride-rich outer enamel. Do NOT polish: stain-free surfaces, demineralized white spots, newly erupted teeth, exposed cementum/dentin, acute inflammation or severe sensitivity, delicate esthetic restorations (or use finest agent only).

Pressurized air + water + sodium bicarbonate. Great on heavy stain and grooves. Contraindications = SALT or SPRAY: sodium-restricted diets, hypertension, renal disease (salt) · respiratory disease, infections, exposed roots and restoration margins (spray). Technique: aim at enamel away from gingiva, keep moving, HVE running.

Heat (speed·pressure·time·dryness) → pulp injury. Coarse grit + time → enamel loss. Cup/brush on tissue → gingival trauma. Coarse paste on restorations → permanent scratches. Processing: disposables → trash; handpiece/angle/mirror (semicritical) → clean, lubricate, heat-sterilize; surfaces (noncritical) → barriers + disinfectant. Maintenance answer: per the manufacturer's instructions.