What is Air Abrasion Tool and How It Is Used in Dentistry?
[M.D.S. (Ortho), Fellow ICOI]
Air abrasion is the latest evolution of technology in dentistry that is used for various purposes, including removing tooth decay or cavities, tooth preparation, and surface conditioning. It is an alternative to a traditional drilling method used to preserve the teeth’s natural structure. In this blog article, you will learn what air abrasion is, how it works, and how it is used in dentistry.
What is air abrasion?
Air abrasion is a dental tool used to remove tooth decay or prepare the tooth for restoration with the help of compressed air, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen gas. It similarly does the same work as cavity drilling eventually but in a unique way. This method can be used in a number of dental procedures, like removing stains, tooth cavities, and old restorations. Also, it is used to prepare the teeth for new restorations, dental sealants, and dental bonding.
How does it work?
Generally, the traditional dental drilling method(rotary instruments) was used to prepare the teeth and remove decay. Air abrasion is an advanced dental tool alternative to traditional dental drills as technology advances. It is a minimally invasive method that can reduce the need for drilling and anesthesia.
It is particularly used to remove small cavities and tooth decay, repair chipped or worn teeth, prepare teeth for dental bondings or sealants, or unwanted tooth material by using a high-pressure stream of compressed air and tiny abrasive particles to gently and selectively eliminate the small amount of tooth structure or dental tissues. The effectiveness of this technique is related to the hardness of tooth tissue and the materials used to remove and the operating parameters of this tool.
Procedures
The air abrasion procedure involves the following steps:
- Firstly, the dentist will prepare the patient by using a rubber dam or protective barrier around the treatment area to isolate it from the rest of the mouth.
- The next step is the dentist will set up the air abrasion tool, which consists of abrasive particles with a source of compressed air and a container of abrasive materials. The commonly used abrasive ingredients are aluminum oxide or baking soda particles.
- Then he activates the device and aims at the targeted area. The abrasive particles are propelled towards the tooth surface by air compression and gently remove the desired tooth tissues.
- Also, the suction device is often used to remove abrasive particles or debris, while the treatment protects the patient from inhaling or swallowing the abrasive materials.
- After that, the dentist will proceed with the necessary treatments, which may involve filling, dental bonding, or other procedures as per the patient’s need.
Advantages of air abrasion
When compared to the conventional drilling method, air abrasion has numerous advantages the following:
- It usually generates no heat, force, vibration, or noises which can be helpful for people who are anxious and sensitive.
- It can reduce the need for anesthesia and make patients more comfortable.
- It leaves more healthy teeth tissues behind.
- It reduces the chance of damaging the tooth during this procedure.
- It is a minimally invasive procedure.
- It can be a perfect choice for treating and sealing up tiny, undetectable cavities.
- It is an easy and simple procedure, but it may take longer than conventional drilling.
- It reduces the possibility of tooth fracture or chipping.
- The dentist will have great control over the removal of tooth structure with this device which allows precise and targeted treatment.
- It can be a versatile tool used for various dental procedures such as cavity preparation, composite resin bonding, sealant placement, removal of discoloration, and fixing minor chips and defects.
Is air abrasion safe?
Yes, air abrasion is considered safe, just as traditional drilling, and these abrasive particles are also non-toxic to use to remove tooth structure. Moreover, you will be asked to wear eye protection to prevent your eyes from irritation. Also, the special suction tool is used close to the treated teeth to remove all the particles in your mouth.
Bottom line
Air abrasion is an advanced technology with newer restoration materials for minimally invasive dentistry. It is a drill-less alternative to the traditional drill method and is also considered to be safe and effective. However, it is crucial to mind that it may not be a good option for all dental issues. The effectiveness of this technique is based on the extent, location, and dental condition of the patient. Your dentist will examine each case and determine the best treatment option.
If you have any queries or concerns about the air abrasion technique, you can feel free to reach us at Lakshme Dental Hospital in Tirunelveli.
