What is the ideal way to control heat buildup during a polish?

Limiting polish time to a few seconds is the ideal method for controlling heat buildup during polishing procedures. When a dental assistant polishes a tooth, friction is generated between the polishing device and the tooth surface, which can lead to heat production. By restricting the duration of the polishing process, the chances of overheating the tooth and surrounding tissues are minimized.

This approach not only protects the tooth enamel and dental pulp from potential thermal damage but also enhances patient comfort, as excessive heat can lead to sensitivity or discomfort. Therefore, keeping polish time brief is a key technique in preventing heat-related issues.

While increasing the speed of the handpiece or applying more pressure might actually increase the friction and, consequently, heat generation, cooling the handpiece between uses can alleviate some heat issues but does not address the heat buildup occurring during the actual polishing process. Overall, controlling the time of contact with the polish is the most effective method to mitigate heat buildup.