Air Abrasion -- An Exciting New Dental Technique - By: Christine OKelly

Air abrasion is fast becoming a vital piece of technology for many oral health professionals. A much friendlier version than the often-despised dental drill, this system works to both prevent problems to treat existing problems. A dentist can use this new technique to treat many issues before they get to the point where traditional drilling is required.

The History

Actually, this new technology is not really new. During the 1940s, a dentist by the name of Dr. Robert Black created this machine to provide his patients with a worriless and painless way to remove dental decay. Unfortunately, the first version of this technology did not have the effect Dr. Black had hoped. Powered by a series of pulleys and belts rather than by electricity, the original version vibrated terribly. The smell of burnt teeth also added to the downfall of this original air abrasion machine.

The Technique

If you have ever undergone a skin microdermabrasion treatment, the air abrasion technique will seem familiar to you. This dental technology makes use of highly powered air pressure tool that wears down small areas of a tooth gently using aluminum oxide microfragments. This abrasive material, slowly removes plaque, tartar, debris, and decay, and can even smooth out dips in a tooth. When used by a skilled dentist, there is no pain involved with air abrasion treatment and it does not require the use of any anesthetic. An oral care professional can control the intensity of the air and the speed of the abrasion so the aluminum oxide treatment is extremely accurate and easily controllable. A bonus to many patients, this treatment does not usually bring about fear and there is no recovery period.

The Benefits

Because a dentist only removes small areas of a tooth with the thin stream of air, it is nearly impossible to remove too much of a tooth. Also known as microdentistry, when used with a decay identifying colored dye, a dentist can use it exactly as he or she can see the location and extent of the decay. The precision of this technique also makes it the perfect tool for repairing imperfections and tiny cracks and it is ideal for procedures like shaping tooth colored fillings and bonding treatments.

The Disadvantages

Although air abrasion has made a positive change in the field of dentistry forever, there are a few disadvantages to this technology. First of all, it is not suitable for repairing crowns or bridges. Additionally, it is not effective for treating large areas of decay. Patients do have a heavy gritty feeling in their mouths when undergoing this treatment, but the suction tool and a quick rinse take care of it.

An amazing tool for treating cavities and other early stage dental problems, air abrasion is an exciting new technique, especially for patients who fear the drill. To catch these early stage problems, visit your dentist regularly. Whether you live in Los Angeles or San Jose, dental patients can rest at ease during their next visit know that there is alternative to the sound, needles, and pain associated with the dreaded drill.

About the Author

Christine O'Kelly is a writer for the San Jose California dentist, Zeidler Dental Group. This San Jose dental practice offers a full range of both general and cosmetic dental treatments, including implants, tooth whitening, and many others.

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