What damage can excessive speed of the prophy angle cause?

Excessive speed of the prophy angle can lead to frictional heat, which has the potential to damage the tooth structure. When the prophy angle rotates too quickly, it generates heat due to the friction between the rotating rubber cup and the tooth surface. This heat can compromise the integrity of the tooth enamel and potentially harm the underlying dental pulp.

In contrast, enhancing tooth whitening, aiding in plaque removal, or benefiting the gingiva typically relates to using appropriate speed and technique during coronal polishing, rather than excessive speed. Maintaining a suitable speed is essential for safe and effective dental procedures, ensuring that the enamel remains intact and the tooth's health is preserved.