What outcome should a dental assistant strive to achieve with effective polishing?

In effective coronal polishing, one primary outcome a dental assistant aims for is the aesthetic improvement in tooth appearance. Polishing smooths the tooth surfaces, removes extrinsic stains, and enhances the overall shine and luster of the teeth, which can boost a patient's confidence and satisfaction with their smile. This aspect of dental care is important, as many patients seek professional polishing services not only for health reasons but also for improvements in appearance.

While other outcomes such as reduced plaque accumulation and fluoride coverage are significant, they can be seen as indirect benefits that may result from polishing. The primary goal remains the enhancement of the visual aspect of the teeth. Polishing itself does not directly relieve dental discomfort, nor does it inherently provide fluoride treatment; instead, it serves to complement oral hygiene practices and aesthetic desires that patients commonly prioritize.