If you have been putting off going to the dentist because of the fear of what might be found, the discomfort of needles, or the scary whirring of a dental drill, you can now relax and get your teeth cleaned and examined.
There is a dental technique called dental air abrasion that is an effective treatment used to remove decay.
How does it work? The decayed tooth is partitioned off using a rubber dam or similar method to isolate the tooth to be repaired. A handpiece is used to propel a powdery substance at the decay (envision using a sandblaster to remove old paint from concrete). As the diseased part of the tooth is blasted away, it is suctioned out along with the abrasive powder used.
There is a dental technique called dental air abrasion that is an effective treatment used to remove decay.
A tooth colored composite resin is then used to repair the tooth. It is important to note that this technique is not available for use with dental amalgam or to repair teeth where amalgam must be removed.
Does this technique work for everyone? Absolutely, but the best candidates are those patients that are not suffering from deep decay. This should encourage even the most timid person to get to the dentist twice per year as early detection is easily repaired with dental air abrasion.
Will I still need to be anesthetized? Probably not as most of these repairs do not penetrate the tooth far enough to reach the nerve. This translates into one less squeamish issue everyone wants to avoid … the shot and hours waiting for the anesthetic to wear off!
Are there any other advantages? Dental air abrasion allows much less of the healthy tooth to be removed than with the traditional repair method. As previously mentioned, deeper decay may not be suitable, but a discussion with your dentist will help determine if you are a candidate.
Are there side effects? A gritty sensation along with a funny taste might be present, but they are easily rinsed away.
With the apprehension of a dental visit removed, patients can have that professional cleaning and exam twice per year allowing for healthier teeth and gums and a lifetime of brighter smiles.
For more information and to schedule your next exam, contact our Arlington TX dental office today.
