What is air abrasion? It’s an alternative option for treating cavities that avoids the use of a potentially anxiety-inducing dental drill. This makes it a great choice for kids, as it offers a much gentler experience than traditional cavity-filling techniques. Here’s what you should know about air abrasion for kids and its benefits.

What is air abrasion in pediatric dentistry?

Air abrasion for kids makes use of fine particles delivered by air to remove tooth decay, as opposed to a traditional dental drill. This eliminates the pressure and vibration associated with the drill to minimize discomfort and provide pain-free fillings.

The fine spray can remove decay gently, making it an excellent choice for dealing with minor cavities and tooth decay. The particles used wear away decayed material without harming strong, healthy enamel.

During the process, the dentist will use a suction tool to remove particles and decayed material. This keeps your child’s mouth clean and free of any debris while ensuring a comfortable experience.

Your child will wear some safety equipment during the procedure, such as protective eyewear. Depending on the specific situation, a rubber dam may also be used to isolate the area being treated.

Benefits of Air Abrasion for Kids

One of the primary benefits of air abrasion for kids is that the gentle treatment doesn’t harm healthy enamel. As much of the natural tooth structure as possible is preserved while the dentist is removing decay.

Your child will enjoy a much more comfortable treatment compared to using a traditional dental drill for fillings. The sound, vibration, and pressure of a drill can cause anxiety and leave your child afraid of the dentist. Air abrasion for kids avoids this entirely.

This method provides long-term benefits as well. Avoiding dental anxiety makes future visits and treatments easier. This continues even once your child has grown and is responsible for their own dental care, as they’ll have a positive view of the dentist in general.

Air abrasion can prevent the need for anesthesia in many cases. Local anesthetic is effective in preventing pain when a dental drill is used but still requires the initial injection. This gentle treatment can often prevent the need for anesthesia altogether.

When is air abrasion used?

Air abrasion is typically used for minor tooth decay. It is highly effective when dealing with small cavities and tooth decay on the surface. This makes it a top choice whenever tooth decay is spotted early.

This technology is also used for other treatments. It sees some use in stain removal. Dental bonding or sealants may make use of this type of treatment to prepare the surface of the tooth beforehand.

You’ll find air abrasion is the go-to choice for minor tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of teeth. The key consideration here is how deep the decay has progressed. Deeper cavities may not be suitable for air abrasion.

Preparing Your Child for Air Abrasion Treatment

It’s always a good idea to prepare your child for any dental treatment they might need. Explaining the necessity to remove tooth decay, because it will continue to spread and damage their teeth, will help your children better understand the procedure. Let them know that the process will be quiet and comfortable.

The air abrasion process itself is fairly quick, and your child will remain comfortable throughout. If they have had fillings with a traditional drill before, highlight that this treatment is significantly more comfortable.

Comparing Air Abrasion to Traditional Methods

Air abrasion provides a gentler and less invasive option for minor tooth decay compared to traditional drilling. However, it’s important to note that it isn’t always the right option. A good pediatric dentist will focus on identifying your child’s specific needs and choosing the best available treatment option for their case.

Deeper tooth decay often still requires the use of a traditional drill for effective treatment. This is particularly true when decay reaches close to the tooth pulp. Serious tooth decay requires much more material removal and enamel shaping than air abrasion is typically suited for.

Air Abrasion From Your Pediatric Dentist Near Salem, Oregon

You can choose this type of treatment for kids to help your children enjoy a more comfortable experience at the dentist. This not only helps them today but also builds up a more positive view of visiting the dentist, so they can form a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.

The team at Spinnaker Pediatric Dentistry is your dentist office near Salem, OR, offering a full range of modern pediatric dental treatment options. These include air abrasion in pediatric dentistry to provide the best patient experience for your children. Schedule your child’s appointment today.