What polishing paste is generally recommended for use on filled hybrid composite restorations?

The recommended polishing paste for filled hybrid composite restorations is aluminum oxide. Aluminum oxide is favored because it strikes a balance between effective polishing and maintaining the integrity of the composite material. It is designed to be coarse enough to eliminate surface imperfections while achieving a smooth finish without damaging the underlying restoration.

In the context of composite materials, aluminum oxide helps to preserve the surface and aesthetic qualities of the restoration, as it is less abrasive than some other options, making it ideal for this application. The use of aluminum oxide also aligns with the goal of maintaining the polish for a longer period, as its properties allow for effective polishing with minimal risk of scratching the surface of the composite.

In comparison, while calcium carbonate is used for polishing on certain materials, it is generally softer and less effective for durable composites. Silicon carbide is too abrasive and may damage the composites more than it helps, which is not suitable for polished finishes. Diamond paste, although extremely effective for cutting and polishing, is typically reserved for harder materials and may not be appropriate for softer hybrid composites, where a gentler approach is warranted.