ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine patient complaints on recoloration development after polishing applications in primary and permanent teeth that differed in enamel composition and to determine the ideal polishing method.MethodsA total of 30 permanent upper incisors and 30 primary molars were randomly divided into three groups of 10 using three different polishing techniques. Each polishing method (rubber, brush, and air polishing) was applied to the test surface of its own group. Milk and coffee were used in the coloring processes. A spectrophotometer was used for color measurements. Color change (∆E) was calculated between control and test surfaces and between the three measurement points.ResultsIn the primary teeth’s test surfaces, the rubber and brush groups were significantly more colored than the air-polishing group, when compared between after polishing and after coloration (p ˂ 0.05). Furthermore, the color difference of the permanent teeth between the initial measurements and after coloration was significantly higher in the rubber group’s test surface compared to the air-polished group (p ˂ 0.05). The average ∆E values in both primary and permanent teeth were as follows: rubber > brush > air polishing.ConclusionsCompared to rubber or brush polishing, air polishing seems safer to avoid predisposition to postoperative enamel discoloration. Primary teeth are more colored than permanent teeth. The effect of polishing on postoperative coloring should always be considered, and air polishing should be preferred whenever possible.