What type of stains does air-powder polishing effectively remove?

Air-powder polishing is particularly effective at removing supragingival extrinsic stains. These stains originate from external sources such as food, drinks, tobacco, and other substances that accumulate on the surface of the teeth above the gum line. The abrasive particles used in air-powder polishing, combined with a stream of air and water, can effectively blast away these superficial stains without damaging tooth enamel.

This method is not designed to address intrinsically stained teeth, which have discoloration originating from within the tooth structure, such as fluorosis or aging. Similarly, cavity-causing bacteria are generally not removed through polishing techniques, as they require different treatment approaches like scaling or restorative work. Subgingival stains, found below the gum line, may also not be effectively treated with air-powder polishing, as this technique primarily targets the exposed surfaces of the teeth. Thus, the choice that best represents the application of air-powder polishing is its effectiveness in removing supragingival extrinsic stains.