Air Abrasion

By Reno Laser Dentistry

January 26, 2012

Category: dental reno

Tags: Reno Dentist Dental Health Reno Laser Dentist Dental Care and Oral Care

Well luckily due to all the advances in the dental industry which has another technique to use on patients that aren’t fond of the drill. One way to look at air abrasion is that it may be used as another tool to help patients that may have dental anxiety.

According to an article at webmd.com, “they give a complete breakdown and compare the pros and cons about air abrasion; dental health without the drill.

Air abrasion is a drill-less technique that is being used by some dentists to remove tooth decay and for other applications.

How Does Air Abrasion Work?

During air abrasion, an instrument that works like a mini sandblaster is used to spray away decay. During air abrasion, a fine stream of particles is aimed at the decayed portion of the tooth. These particles are made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture and are propelled toward the tooth surface by compressed air or a gas that runs through the dental hand piece. Small particles of decay on the tooth surface are removed as the stream of particles strikes them. The particles of decay are then “suctioned” away.

Is Air Abrasion Safe?

Yes, air abrasion is safe. The only precautions needed before air abrasion are protective eye wear (to prevent eye irritation from the spray) and the use of a rubber dam (a rubber sheet that fits around teeth) or protective resin applied to nearby teeth and gums to protect areas of the mouth that aren’t being treated. The suctioning of particles also prevents them from being breathed into the lungs.

What Are the Advantages of Air Abrasion? Compared with the traditional drilling method, the advantages of air abrasion are many and include the following:

Air abrasion generates no heat, sound, pressure, or vibration.
Air abrasion reduces the need for anesthesia, particularly if the cavity is shallow.
Air abrasion leaves much more of the healthy tooth tissue behind.
Air abrasion leaves the working area relatively dry, which is an advantage during the placement of composite fillings.
Air abrasion reduces the risk of micro-fracturing and chipping of the tooth, which some experts believe can lead to premature restorative failures.
Air abrasion allows the dentist to treat multiple sites in the mouth during a single visit.
The procedure is relatively simple and quick.”

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Dr. McElhinney’s dental practice located in Reno, Nevada which provides all your dental needs is here to help. Contact Dr. McElhinney’s office for more information or to set-up an appointment.