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Air abrasion: its uses and abuses
Avijit Banerjee1, Timothy F Watson
1Division of Conservative Dentistry, Guy's, King's & St Thomas' Dental Institute, KCL, London.
Dental Update
|October 9, 2002
Summary
Air abrasion, a dental hard tissue removal technique, is resurging due to advances in adhesive dentistry. This review covers its mechanism, clinical applications, and potential drawbacks for modern operative dentistry.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Operative Dentistry
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Air abrasion, a non-rotary dental hard tissue removal method, was developed in 1945.
- Early clinical promise was overshadowed by the introduction of air turbine handpieces.
- Recent advancements in adhesive dentistry have revived interest in air abrasion techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mode of action of contemporary air abrasion units.
- To discuss the clinical applications of air abrasion in operative dentistry.
- To identify potential pitfalls associated with air abrasion use.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of air abrasion technology and its applications.
- Analysis of current air abrasion unit mechanisms.
- Discussion of clinical case studies and expert opinions.
Main Results:
- Air abrasion offers a pseudo-mechanical, non-rotary approach to dental hard tissue preparation.
- Modern air abrasion units are being reconsidered for cavity design in adhesive dentistry.
- The technique has various clinical uses, but potential limitations exist.
Conclusions:
- Air abrasion is a relevant technique in modern operative dentistry, particularly with advances in adhesives.
- Understanding its mode of action and clinical applications is crucial for effective use.
- Awareness of potential pitfalls will aid in successful implementation and patient outcomes.