When told that there is an alternative to the traditional drill used for removing tooth decay, some might think that it involves a laser. While there are lasers that can perform some dental tasks, something as old as “air abrasion” can be utilized to remove smaller pockets of tooth decay painlessly and without local anesthetic. “Kinetic abrasion technology” is the term used to describe a decay-removal technique that is somewhat akin to sandblasting on a far smaller and gentler scale. It involves bombarding the decayed area with a high-speed stream of micro-fine particles that virtually blasts away decay safely and silently, without heat, pressure, or anesthetic. The dentist then simply fills the cavity with amalgam or tooth-colored resin.
Modern dental technology is the result of years of research by professionals dedicated to making dental care effective, efficient, long-lasting, and as painless as possible. For compassionate dental care, including complete restorations, cosmetic dentistry, and regular cleanings, our primary goal at West Brookfield Dental is to treat our patients with the best, most up-to-date, gentle dentistry possible. Office hours are by appointment at 9 West Main St., West Brookfield. Please call us at 508.867.2777.
P.S. The air abrasion method requires wearing protective glasses during the procedure, and a rubber dam may be applied inside the mouth and around the tooth area being treated to serve as a particle barrier.
