Objective: To assess the surface roughness resulting after application of currently available interproximal polishing. Materials and Methods: The analysis was carried out by means of digital subtraction radiography, profilometry, and scanning electron microscopy. The roughness of natural untreated enamel served as the reference. Five enamel reduction methods were tested (Profin, New Metal Strips, O-Drive D30, Air Rotor, and the Ortho-Strips) and were applied in accordance with their manufacturers' recommendations. Fifty-five teeth were treated by randomly chosen methods, all of which were applied by one person. One proximal surface was only ground and left unpolished while the other received the finishing and polish recommended by the manufacturer. Results: Loss of tooth substance, as measured by subtraction radiography, was significantly lower (P < .05) for the group treated with Ortho-Strips. Profilometric analysis of enamel roughness showed that the use of Ortho-Strips, O-Drive D30, and New Metal Strips in the grinding mode produced equally rough surfaces (P > .05). The Air Rotor and Profin system in the grinding mode produced the significantly (P < .05) roughest surfaces. A significant (P < .05) reduction of the mean roughness values was registered in all groups when treatment was followed by polishing. The Profin system and Ortho-Strips achieved the significantly smoothest surfaces (P < .05) with polishing. Conclusions: In general, interproximal enamel reduction should be followed by thorough polishing. Furthermore, oscillating systems seem to be advantageous.
