How long have dentists been drilling teeth? Would you believe 9,000 years? In an ancient graveyard in Pakistan, archaeologists discovered skulls containing teeth that had received drilling. The stone-age dentists removed decay using drills constructed of sharpened flint.
Though advanced dentistry would not be possible without drilling, the whine of a dental drill can make many patients’ hearts pound. However, there is another way cosmetic dentists can remove tooth decay.
This method is known as air abrasion or drill-less dentistry. An air abrasion instrument removes material by spraying tiny aluminum oxide particles onto the tooth. The particles work like a sandblaster spraying away the decayed tooth structure.
The many advantages of air abrasion make it a popular procedure for dentists and patients alike. Because air abrasion is generally free of pain, the need for anesthesia is reduced. The air abrasion instrument does not produce vibrations or pressure.
Patients welcome the fact that air abrasion instruments don’t generates that whiny sound that rings in your ears and makes your palms sweat. Because of this, air abrasion can be a less daunting method for young patients or those with dental anxiety. Air abrasion is frequently quicker and more precise than traditional drilling, leaving more of the healthy tooth intact.
At Jim Erpenbach DDS, we offer anxiety-free dentistry. If you would like to learn more about air abrasion or dental sedation, call us at 865-584-8630. We are located at 6311 Kingston Pike, Ste 8W in Knoxville. The caring staff at Jim Erpenbach DDS is passionate about your comfort and satisfaction.
Contact Jim Erpenbach DDS:
865-584-8630
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
6311 Kingston Pike, Ste 8W
Knoxville, Tennessee
37919
