What polishing agent is commonly used to avoid excessive abrasion on tooth surfaces?

The polishing agent commonly used to avoid excessive abrasion on tooth surfaces is pumice. Pumice is particularly favored in dental hygiene because of its effective polishing properties while being relatively gentle on enamel compared to other abrasive substances. Its fine particles create a smooth finish without causing significant wear on the tooth structure, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of enamel.

In contrast, other options like baking soda can be too abrasive if used in high concentrations or improperly, while calcium carbonate, although commonly used in some toothpaste formulations, may not provide the same level of careful polishing suitable for dental procedures. Charcoal, although popular in some dental products for its whitening claims, has a coarse texture that can lead to enamel abrasion, making it less ideal for polishing in a clinical setting. Overall, pumice strikes the right balance between effective cleaning and preserving the tooth's surface.