Air Abrasion Dentistry

Air abrasion dentistry is a noninvasive dental technique that utilizes a controlled stream of fine abrasive particles propelled by compressed air or gas to remove decay, stains, or old dental restorations from teeth. Unlike traditional drilling methods, air abrasion is painless and produces minimal patient discomfort. This gentle approach to dental care preserves healthier tooth structure, making it ideal for treating small cavities and preparing teeth for fillings, sealants, or bonding.  

With its precision, comfort, and minimally invasive nature, air abrasion dentistry provides numerous benefits, including reduced need for anesthesia, preservation of healthy enamel, and minimized risk of microfractures, making it an attractive option for both dentists and patients seeking a more comfortable and conservative dental treatment experience. 

Applications of Air Abrasion Dentistry

Removal of Surface Stains and Discoloration

Air abrasion can effectively remove surface stains and teeth discoloration caused by smoking, coffee, tea, or certain foods. The gentle abrasive particles remove stains without damaging the enamel, resulting in a brighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile.

Treatment of Small Cavities and Dental Decay

Air abrasion is particularly well-suited for treating small cavities and dental decay. The precise stream of abrasive particles allows dentists at Smile Solutions to remove decayed tooth structures with minimal disruption to healthy enamel, preserving more of the natural tooth structure than traditional drilling methods. Contact us today!

Preparation of Teeth for Dental Fillings, Sealants, or Bonding

Air abrasion prepares teeth for restorative procedures, including dental fillings, sealants, and bonding. By removing decay or roughening the tooth surface, air abrasion creates an ideal bonding surface for dental materials, ensuring optimal adhesion and longevity of the restoration.

Repair of Chipped or Fractured Teeth

Air abrasion in Pittsburg, KS, can gently remove damaged or irregular areas of enamel from chipped or fractured teeth. This allows for precise shaping and smoothing of the tooth surface, restoring its appearance and function while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Removal of Old Dental Restorations or Cement

Air abrasion is commonly used to remove old dental restorations, such as amalgam fillings or dental cement. The abrasive particles effectively break down and remove the restorative material, allowing for the placement of new restorations or the preparation of the tooth for other dental procedures.

The Air Abrasion Procedure

Before beginning the air abrasion procedure, the dentist  in Pittsburg, KS, will thoroughly clean and isolate the tooth to be treated. Protective eyewear and a rubber dam or dental suction device could shield the patient's eyes and prevent the inhalation of abrasive particles.

Using a specialized handpiece connected to a dental unit, the dentist will direct a controlled stream of abrasive particles onto the affected tooth. The intensity and duration of the abrasion can be adjusted to suit the specific needs of the patient and the extent of dental decay or damage.

The abrasive particles effectively remove decayed or damaged tooth structure, leaving behind healthy enamel. Unlike traditional drilling, which generates heat and vibration, air abrasion produces minimal friction and does not generate heat, preserving more of the surrounding healthy tooth structure.

Once the decay or damage has been removed, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for restoration. Depending on the extent of the treatment, the tooth may be filled with a dental composite material, sealed with a dental sealant, or bonded with a dental restoration such as a crown or veneer.

The Benefits of Air Abrasion Dentistry

Minimally Invasive Technique

One of the primary benefits of air abrasion dentistry is its minimally invasive nature. Unlike traditional drilling methods that require the removal of significant amounts of healthy tooth structure, air abrasion selectively targets only the damaged or decayed areas of the tooth. By using a controlled stream of fine abrasive particles, dentists can precisely remove decay or prepare teeth for restorative procedures while preserving as much healthy enamel as possible. This results in smaller, more conservative dental restorations and reduces the need for anesthesia in many cases. 

Virtually Painless Treatment

Air abrasion dentistry is a virtually painless treatment experience for patients. The gentle nature of the procedure minimizes discomfort, making it ideal for individuals with dental anxiety or sensitivity. Unlike traditional drilling that can produce heat, vibration, and noise, air abrasion produces minimal friction and does not generate heat, reducing the risk of discomfort or irritation for patients. As a result, patients can undergo dental procedures more comfortably and with greater peace of mind. 

Preservation of Healthy Tooth Structure

Preserving healthy tooth structure is essential for maintaining the integrity and strength of the teeth. Air abrasion dentistry allows dentists to remove decay or damaged tooth structure while minimizing the loss of healthy enamel. This preservation of natural tooth structure not only contributes to the longevity of the tooth but also reduces the risk of future dental problems. Additionally, preserving healthy enamel helps maintain proper bite alignment and distribution of forces, reducing the likelihood of dental issues such as fractures or TMJ disorders.

Versatile Applications

Air abrasion dentistry can have a wide range of applications in modern dental practice. It can remove surface stains and discoloration, treat small cavities and dental decay, prepare teeth for dental fillings, sealants, or bonding, repair chipped or fractured teeth, and remove old dental restorations or cement. The versatility of air abrasion allows dentists to perform various dental procedures with precision and efficiency, resulting in optimal outcomes for patients.

Whether you're seeking treatment for dental decay, stains, or damage, air abrasion dentistry provides a gentle alternative to traditional drilling methods, allowing you to undergo dental procedures more comfortably and confidently. If you're interested in experiencing the benefits of air abrasion dentistry for yourself, visit Smile Solutions at 611 North Broadway Suite B, Pittsburg, KS 66762, or call (620) 231-4140 to discuss this gentle approach with our dentist and explore how it can enhance your dental care experience.