Air Abrasion
If you have small areas of decay on one or more teeth, or permanent staining you would like to eliminate, it is important to choose a method that retains as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Air abrasion is a technology that does exactly that. The handpiece releases particles about the same size and consistency as sand, resulting in whiter teeth with minimal loss of healthy tooth structure.
What to Expect With Air Abrasion
Your dentist controls the release of 27-micron aluminum oxide powder onto your teeth. As soon as the powder stream makes contact, it gently removes unsightly stains and discoloration. The sensation feels like a light, gentle breeze.
Although air abrasion is not recommended for removing silver fillings, it does an excellent job restoring tooth-colored fillings. The tool is also ideal for treating teeth recently diagnosed with decay that do not already contain fillings. You may notice a slightly gritty sensation in your mouth after treatment, but this goes away quickly once you rinse with water.
Benefits of Treatment with the Air Abrasion Tool
Patients love that air abrasion typically requires no anesthesia. Another benefit is that there is no jarring drilling sound that many people associate with dental visits. The treatment is also free from vibration, which means a more relaxing and comfortable experience for you.
Dr. Stephen Petinge, DMD, provides general, cosmetic, restorative, preventative, and family dentistry, including dental implants, TMJ/TMD care, emergency dentistry, crowns and bridges, teeth whitening, sleep apnea appliances, and sedation dentistry. Dentist in Saugus, MA 01906.
