Which type of surfaces should not be polished during coronal polishing?

The focus of coronal polishing is to remove plaque and stains from healthy tooth surfaces, enhancing oral hygiene and aesthetics. However, polishing should be avoided on non-restorable areas or surfaces with extensive decay. This is because polishing such areas can inadvertently cause further damage, exacerbate existing cavities, and potentially introduce bacteria into already weakened tooth structures. Restorative work or other dental treatments are typically needed for these areas rather than polishing, which is designed for sound tooth structure.

Healthy enamel surfaces can be safely polished to improve their appearance and remove unwanted deposits. Orthodontic brackets require different care and maintenance to avoid their removal or damage, but they may still be polished under specific conditions. The gentle areas near gums, often referred to as the gingival margins, should be treated with care; however, they do not inherently fall into the category of non-restorable surfaces or areas with decay, meaning they can often still be polished with caution.

Thus, the correct choice emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the health and integrity of the tooth structure in coronal polishing practices.