The latest technological advances have given dental professionals the opportunity to use a choice of instruments and materials ideally suited to minimising the amount of tooth loss during cavity preparation.
This concept of microcavity preparation developed in recent years and the introduction of acid-etch techniques, resin bonding and the use of glass-ionomer cements has revolutionised the principles of conservative dentistry. The adhesive properties of new restoratives mean that large box cavities, previously required to retain amalgam, are no longer necessary. Even small microcavities can be readily treated, allowing only the disease itself to be removed, with the healthy tooth structure left untouched.
It’s in the detail…
To perform micro dentistry to the highest standard it’s essential to be able to enlarge the clinical field so that it can be clearly seen. Wearing loupes and lights gives the ability to see small details more easily. The clinical area becomes clearer and more apparent and as the area is larger, clinicians can make the very fine adjustments required to successfully complete minimally invasive techniques with relative ease.
With loupes and lights, clinicians can work with a greater degree of precision and improve working posture to reduce muscular strain, whilst making diagnosis and treatment safer, more reliable, faster and less stressful.
… and the technique
Air abrasion and microetching techniques are among the most suitable methods of removing small areas of tooth without damaging the surrounding structure, providing pinpoint accuracy whilst leaving the surface of the microcavity perfectly prepared for successful bonding.
An air abrasion unit is ideal for cutting microcavities precisely and rapidly, effectively preparing the surface for perfect adhesion and providing early treatment of tooth decay with conservative restorations, whilst dramatically increasing bond strength. For adhesive dentistry to be successful and predictable the surface of the tooth needs to be perfectly clean. Microetchers will effectively clean cavities and remove any debris from bur cut preps, consequently enhancing bond strength.
Air abrasion and microetching have many additional uses, including class V fillings, repairing incisal edges, cementation of onlays, preparation of metal surfaces (Maryland bridge wings) before bonding, the removal of cement on a crown or bridge that requires re-cementation and the removal of stains on and around composite fillings.
It takes a lot of skill to keep it small, so make sure you have the right equipment and materials to be able to bring the benefits of minimal tooth preparation and well-being to you and your patients.
To discover how you, your practice and your patients can benefit from minimally invasive dentistry, click here and we’ll be in touch with our recommended solutions.
