Treating your tooth is a breeze! FAQs about conservative, gentle air abrasion for cavities
At the office of Stephen Huber, DDS, we take great pride in instilling trust among even the most anxious or fearful patients. We accomplish this with an array of gentle and precise techniques and technologies. These approaches include air abrasion, which also supports “micro-dentistry.”
What do you mean by “micro-dentistry”?
A basic principle of our office in Leawood, Kansas, is the use of tools and approaches that conserve the utmost natural tissues or tooth structure. The less that Dr. Huber alters the tooth, the better. Teeth that are conservatively prepared and treated generally look and feel more natural and are restored to their optimal strength. In turn, micro-dentistry or conservative dentistry also helps to ensure that your restored teeth last and last and that our treatments are of terrific value as they hold up so well.
When would you use air abrasion?
Air abrasion techniques are a great help when “preparing” a damaged tooth for treatment. They largely involve cleaning out decayed areas of the damaged teeth before placing restorations such as dental fillings. Air abrasion may be an appropriate, tooth-preserving, and gentle alternative to the drill or other conventional tools to remove damaged tissue.
How does air abrasion work?
As its name suggests, air abrasion involves applying a fine mist of a special powder to abrade or remove decay from the surfaces of the teeth. For instance, Dr. Huber may use this process to prepare premolars and molars for fillings and other restorative treatments. These back teeth account for around nine of every ten cavities. Their grooved surfaces – the pits and fissures – tend to trap food and bacteria, which makes them vulnerable to cavities and other decay. Dr. Huber can painlessly spray this powder on the pitted, fissured areas to get rid of the decay in the most light-touch way possible. This step effectively gives your tooth a clean slate and provides a healthy foundation for the restoration.
Why is this process a better alternative to traditional techniques?
The use of the dental drill is not the most conservative approach. In fact, it can result in the removal of otherwise healthy tissue along with the decayed areas. Air abrasion only eliminates the “bad stuff.” It leaves healthy areas untouched. So, it is a precision approach to treatment. It is also a great option for patients with dental fear or apprehension. Many patients are triggered by certain sights, sounds, sensations, and scents. The drill is among those common triggers.
At Stephen Huber, DDS, we use many state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to eliminate or minimize the use of these common triggers or sources of fear. Air abrasion is one of many technologies/techniques that have been carefully selected to promote the best treatment and experience as you receive that care. Experience these approaches for yourself by calling our office in Leawood, KS, at (913) 349-9795 to schedule your appointment today.
