Dental Care Without a Drill
What Is Air Abrasion Dentistry?
We have yet to treat a patient who enjoys having their teeth drilled. Air abrasion treatment is a technology that allows Dr. Jackson to bypass using a drill. The tool functions like a mini-sandblaster. It sprays out a fine stream of particles made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture. Dr. Jackson aims the stream at stained or decayed portions of the patient’s teeth and effectively sandblasts the decay away. The particles are then suctioned out of the patient’s mouth with a thin tube.
Is Air Abrasion Dentistry Safe?
Yes, the treatment is completely safe. The only safety precautions needed are protective eyewear that we’ll provide to you during your appointment and a rubber dam. The rubber dental dam protects the teeth and gums that we’re not treating. Air abrasion therapy has been around for many years. One of the reasons that you might not have heard about it is because of the cost of the technology. Most dental practices don’t offer air abrasion because the equipment is more expensive than traditional dental drills.
When Would Dr. Jackson Recommend Air Abrasion?
Dr. Jackson would use air abrasion for several reasons:
- Prepping a cavity for a dental filling
- Prepping a tooth for bonding or a sealant
- Removing tooth decay
- Removing old composites
- Removing stains
There are also many advantages to air abrasion:
- There is no need for anesthesia.
- The treatment is quiet and the patient feels no pressure or vibration.
- It is possible to treat multiple sites in one visit.
- It also reduces the risk of chipping or fractures that can be caused by a drill.
For these reasons, air abrasion may be a great option for you. If you’d like to learn more about our air abrasion technology, give us a call at (630) 963-6750 or send us an email to schedule a consultation. Patient comfort is one of our highest priorities, which is why we offer this great alternative to dental drills.