The effect of different levels of polishing of amalgam restorations on the plaque retention and gingival inflammation.

This study was performed to elucidate the effect of different levels of polishing of amalgam restorations as part of the treatment of patients with gingivitis and/or incipient periodontitis on plaque retention and gingival inflammation. The results indicate that contouring of restorations and removal of marginal overhangs using diamond tips and conventional finishing burrs is sufficient to permit adequate tooth cleaning and that further polishing using rubber discs, rubber tips and polishing pastes does not result in further improvement of gingival health.