Composite Finishing Sequence — ORE Part 1 MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: C — Contour excess, then use progressively finer discs or points, finishing with a high-gloss polishing medium
**A is correct.** Composite should be contoured to remove excess and then refined using abrasives in a progressively finer sequence. Discs are useful on accessible flat and proximal surfaces; rubber points/cups help on anatomical areas, and a final polishing medium may increase gloss. The exact system varies with composite type and access, but the governing principle is progressive reduction in abrasive coarseness. **B** leaves a rougher surface because a coarse diamond is a contouring, not final-polishing, instrument. **C** is wrong because a smooth matrix surface does not remove flash, correct contour or refine accessible restoration margins. **D** is wrong because a surface sealant is adjunctive and cannot substitute for contouring and polishing. **E** is too nonspecific: pumice alone is not an appropriate universal composite polishing protocol.
Reference: da Costa J, Ferracane J, Paravina RD, et al. Effect of different finishing and polishing techniques on the surface roughness of microfilled, hybrid and packable composite resins. Brazilian Dental Journal. 2005. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16113932/