The Newest Developments in the Art and Science of Air Abrasion

Bilateral winged wedges create more interproximal separation as well as creating “concrete formers” where most or all of a wall is missing thereby creating biomimetic restorations quickly and predictably. All of the current matrix and ring systems ignore the common problem of large missing sections of posterior teeth. If most or all of the lingual or buccal wall of a posterior tooth is missing the dentist usually resorts to the Old Faithful Tofflemeier band and retainer.

The advent of the water shrouded particle beam has again ignited interest in techniques to create minimally invasive restorations that are both biomimetic and strong. Burs whether carbide or diamond can and do cause crazing and cracking of enamel and dentin whereas particle ablation does not. The last obstacle to overcome was the dust—that has been accomplished with the “water shroud”.

Learning Objectives

• Different applications of air abrasion
• What works in what settings
• Technique for no-anesthetic restorations into dentin