Air Abrasion Dentistry

Do you have a fear of or aversion to dental drilling? If so, you’ll be pleased to learn of a new technique available to Wichita residents. Air abrasion, also known as micro abrasion, is one of the cutting-edge technologies that Dr. Jaclyn Blyholder, yout dentist at Blyholder Family Dentistry in Wichita, KS, offers to her patients.

Air abrasion dentistry allows patients to achieve a healthy smile without noisy, uncomfortable drilling. Also, air abrasion is a practical, minimally invasive micro-dentistry technique that works exceptionally well on areas with limited decay.

Are you wondering whether you are a fit candidate for air abrasion dentistry? Then, keep reading to find out more about air abrasion.

At Blyholder Family Dentistry, we provide technologically advanced air abrasion in Wichita, KS. Call us at 316-684-4921.

How Air Abrasion Dentistry Works

Generally speaking, traditional dentistry is almost synonymous with drilling, and it is one of those elements of the conventional dental experience that people try to avoid the most. While dental drills effectively remove decay and prepare teeth for fillings, their sound and strong vibrations cause many people to stress and aversion to being in a dental chair.

However, drilling may also damage tooth structures and cause discomfort to the patient. Also, some patients have had such negative dentistry experiences that they may suffer a panic or anxiety attack from merely seeing or hearing a dental drill.

Noiseless, heatless air abrasion is a gentle alternative to drilling. This method removes tooth decay by propelling tiny aluminum oxide or silica particles toward degraded areas, similar to sandblasting. Then the dentist applies a filling to seal the tooth and prevent further damage.

Apart from treating tooth decay, dentists may also use air abrasion to remove composite fillings, eliminate surface stains, or prepare teeth for sealants.

Is Air Abrasion Safe?

Air abrasion is entirely safe. The micro-particles used to remove decay contain no toxic elements. As a precaution, both the dentist and the patient will wear protective goggles to prevent eye irritation as a precaution. A suction device will promptly remove all waste to ensure that no particles end up in the patient’s lungs.

The Benefits of Air Abrasion Dentistry

Compared to traditional dentistry, air abrasion offers multiple advantages, including:

  • Tooth integrity. Drilling inevitably removes some healthy tooth structure. Air abrasion enables precise removal of the decayed areas without damaging the tooth.
  • Speed. An air abrasion procedure is quick and easy.
  • Comfort. When suitable, air abrasion is an optimal solution for patients with dental anxiety since it involves no drilling, excessive pressure, heat, or jarring noises.

Air abrasion is highly effective in removing early decay and preserving the natural tooth structure. In addition, the procedure is usually painless and does not require a local anesthetic, which is another plus for patients afraid of needles.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Air Abrasion Dentistry in Wichita, KS?

The air abrasion technique is an acceptable option for:

  • Children
  • Patients with limited, superficial tooth decay
  • Patients who suffer from severe dental anxiety

Air abrasion does not work well for deep cavities, however. Regular check-ups and timely diagnosis can help spot cavities early and enable air abrasion treatment.

The procedure is only compatible with composite fillings since air abrasion leaves the tooth surface too smooth for amalgam fillings to adhere correctly.

What to Expect During an Air Abrasion Procedure

Before an air abrasion procedure, the patient must undergo a dental exam so that Dr. Blyholder can assess whether air abrasion is a suitable treatment option.

The dental team will use care to guard the patient’s adjacent healthy teeth against abrasive particles. Then, using a specialized compressed air handpiece, Dr. Blyholder will deliver a targeted spray of aluminum oxide particles to the tooth surface.

The force of air pressure gives the particles enough power to remove decay, while a suction device eliminates waste from the patient’s mouth.

The dentist will ensure that all decay is gone using a red chemical dye. Then Dr. Blyholder will use an acid solution to prepare the area for the filling. The final stage involves placing the composite filling and curing it with a UV light. Composite fillings harden immediately so that the patient may resume eating and drinking right after the procedure.

Caring for Your Teeth and Oral Health

In dentistry, prevention is the best cure. For optimal lifelong oral health, you should:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day
  • Floss at least once a day
  • Visit your dentist for a check-up and cleaning every six months

With regular biannual checkups, your dentist is a lot more likely to diagnose early decay and other issues like gum disease. Then, if necessary, air abrasion can quickly treat any shallow cavities.

Dr. Jaclyn Blyholder: Advanced Dental Care in Wichita, Kansas

At Blyholder Family Dentistry, your oral health is our top priority. We provide a wide range of top-quality dental services in a patient-centered, friendly atmosphere. Our professional, qualified team has over 75 years of combined dental experience.

To schedule an appointment or find out more about air abrasion dentistry at Blyholder Family Dentistry in Wichita, KS, call our dental practice at 316-684-4921.

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