What is the first step in the coronal polishing procedure?

The first step in the coronal polishing procedure involves filling the polishing cup with a polishing agent. This step is essential because the polishing agent is the abrasive substance that will be used to remove plaque and stains from the tooth surfaces during the procedure. By preparing the polishing cup with the appropriate agent, the dental assistant sets the foundation for effective plaque removal and ensures that the procedure can proceed smoothly and efficiently.

In an effective coronal polishing process, the careful application of the polishing agent plays a critical role in achieving a clean, shiny surface on the teeth without causing harm to the enamel. Properly selecting and preparing the polishing agent also aligns with best practices in dental hygiene and patient care.

The other options, like flossing the teeth, evaluating polishing results, or using a retraction cord, are all important aspects of dental care but come at different stages in the overall procedure. Flossing would typically happen prior to coronal polishing to remove any interproximal debris, while evaluating results occurs at the end of the polishing process to assess the effectiveness of the procedure. The use of a retraction cord is specific to other dental procedures and is not directly tied to the initial step of coronal polishing.