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air abrasion
Although Air Abrasion cannot replace the dental drill for fillings, it
very often can provide an alternative. An Air Abrasion unit is like a
mini-sandblaster and using a very fine non-toxic powder of aluminium-oxide
(an ingredient in many toothpastes) can gently spray away areas of decayed
tooth. Because with Air Abrasion there is no heat or vibration generated
it can usually be used without any local anaesthetic injections.
Air Abrasion cannot remove metal fillings or prepare teeth for crowns;
it does allow rapid and comfortable stain removal and treatment of smaller
easily accessible cavities. The use of Air Abrasion can even uncover areas
of very early decay that is not detected on x-rays. This not only allows
the easy and comfortable removal of all decay, but also the stained areas
that may allow decay to start in the first place.
The technology is also useful in repairing existing composite or porcelain
restorations that may have chipped or fractured by roughening their surfaces
to allow better bonding to take place. Porcelain veneers can also be repaired
more easily without the risk of fracture or damage as there is no vibration.
All patients may benefit from the use of this treatment, but it is especially
useful in the treatment of children and adults where local anaesthetic
is not possible due to medical conditions.
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