What condition of the tooth is appropriate for polishing?

The condition described as light brown stained teeth is appropriate for polishing because polishing can effectively enhance the aesthetic appearance of the tooth surface. Stains that are superficial, such as those that may be caused by dietary factors or poor oral hygiene, can often be removed or reduced through the polishing process. This involves using a mild abrasive to smooth the tooth surface, thereby improving its color and shine without causing damage.

In contrast, deep caries involve decay that has penetrated the tooth structure, requiring restorative treatment rather than polishing. Severely worn teeth may have structural damage or sensitivity issues that could be aggravated by polishing. Intrinsically stained teeth, which are discolored due to internal factors such as trauma or certain medications, often require different treatments such as whitening procedures or bonding rather than simply polishing. Thus, polishing is most suitable for light brown stained teeth where cosmetic improvement is the primary goal.