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No longer do you have to worry about the sound of a drill or anxiety associated with receiving a dental procedure or treatment. Just the sound of a dental drill can make you wince. With air abrasion, a drill-less technique that is being used by dentists to remove tooth decay, you can eliminate the anxiety commonly associated with drills. Air abrasion can be used to remove remnants of old composite restorations, prepare a tooth surface for bonding or sealants, and remove superficial stains and tooth discolorations. A relatively new technique, air abrasion uses powerful particles of aluminum oxide to remove debris and decay. The air abrasion is painless and, in some cases, does not require an anesthetic. How Does Air Abrasion Work? An instrument that works like a small sandblaster is used to spray away decay during air abrasion, and a fine stream of particles is aimed at the decayed portion of the tooth. The particles released are made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture that are thrust toward the tooth surface by the compressed air or gas that runs through the dental hand piece. As the stream of particles strikes the decay on the tooth surface, they are removed and suctioned away. If you receive air abrasion, your dentist may use a rubber dam or a protective resin to keep other teeth from being abraded by the particles. The protective resin may also be put on your gums. Additionally, during the procedure, you and your dentist will wear protective eyewear. Advantages of Drill-less Air Abrasion One advantage of air abrasion is that you won't hear any intimidating noise or feel any vibrations. The only noticeable sounds you may hear will be from the evacuation system that removes particles from your mouth, which is similar to the sound of a quiet vacuum cleaner. The air abrasion unit, itself, makes a blowing sound that is similar to an aerosol can being sprayed. Additionally, air abrasion's advantages will often include:
• Generation of no heat or pressure
• Reduced need for anesthesia, especially if the cavity is shallow
• More of the healthy tooth tissue is left behind
• Leaves the working area relatively dry. This makes for easier placement of the composite fillings.
• Allows the dentist to treat multiple sites in the mouth during a single visit.
• A relatively quick and simple procedure A consultation with your dentist will allow an accurate view of the decayed teeth and allow your dentist to create an effective treatment plan. Air abrasion is not for everyone. Children and others who are fearful of drills and have minimal decay are the most ideal candidates for air abrasion. A visit to your cosmetic dentist in West Orange will determine the best treatment plan for your teeth
Dr. Ivan Stein, a leading cosmetic dentist in West Orange and Livingston, offers an array of dental services, including implants, bonding and cosmetic fillings in Livingston. From TMJ treatment and sports dentistry to veneers and custom-made snoring appliances in Livingston and West Orange, this Top New Jersey Dentist delivers professional, smile-enhancing dental care.
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