What is air abrasion?
Air abrasion is a dental technology that can be used to quickly and painlessly remove decay from your tooth. Air abrasion technology functions much like the sandblasting technique used to clear graffiti from walls. To remove the decay, Dr. Omeltschenko uses an air abrasion handpiece to blow a powerful air stream of tiny, fine aluminum oxide particles onto the decayed area of a tooth to literally blast away the decay. Because the air abrasion handpiece does not vibrate or generate heat like a standard dental drill, it is virtually painless and most times does not require a shot of a local anesthetic to numb you.
What to expect during the treatment
Dr. Omeltschenko will begin by removing the decay from your tooth with an air abrasion handpiece. During the decay removal, the air abrasion handpiece will leave an accumulation of harmless, dusty particle debris in your mouth, resulting in a gritty feeling that is eradicated by rinsing. Dr. Omeltschenko may require that you wear protective eyewear during the procedure. To reduce dust buildup, a dental assistant may use a vacuum hose or a water spray technique while utilizing the air abrasion handpiece. After the decay is removed, the inner tooth enamel is etched so the composite material will better bond to the tooth. Then the composite material is placed into the tooth and hardened with a curing light.
What to expect after the treatment
Recovery is often immediate and there are no restrictions on your new filling – simply treat it as you would any other tooth. Some patients experience soreness after the procedure is completed, often associated with what we call a “high bite.” A high bite means that the filling is seated up higher than your natural tooth and will cause moderate to severe pain if not corrected. A high bite can be adjusted very simply by Dr. Omeltschenko in a matter of minutes. If you experience soreness or pain after your filling is completed, call the office and schedule a time to come in for an adjustment.
As with any dental treatment, the success and longevity of the work depends on how well you maintain it. It is important that you follow any home care instructions, including oral hygiene and dietary instructions, come in for routine exams and cleanings, take prescribed medications and report to the office any changes in your health status.
How much does an air abrasion filling cost?
While dentist’s fees vary, in Cincinnati the average range for an air abrasion filling filled with composite is between $100 and $250 depending on the size of the cavity being treated.