By: Dr. Lee Ann Brady, DMD
This topic originally appeared on PankeyGram.org, Dr. Brady granted permission for igniteDDS to share with our readers.
The need for precise, clean tooth preparation methods has increased, especially in adhesive dentistry. One tool that has risen in popularity is chairside air abrasion.
Once dismissed due to logistical headaches, this technique is making a major comeback — especially with tools like the Etchmaster streamlining the process.
Clinical Applications of Air Abrasion
There are numerous ways to integrate air abrasion into your daily workflow:
Zirconia Restoration Preparation
To properly prepare zirconia for bonding, you must use 30-50 micron aluminum oxide particles at about 1 bar (15 psi). This ensures ideal surface texture for optimal adhesion.
Cleaning Tooth Preparations Pre-Bonding
For adhesive cementation, nothing beats the effectiveness of 30-micron aluminum oxide in removing residual temporary cement and prepping the surface.
Small Class I Preparations & Groove Cleaning
Using small glass beads, you can efficiently prep small occlusal cavities and clean out grooves before applying sealants.
Etching Unprepped Enamel
Chairside air abrasion can be an excellent method for prepping enamel for anterior esthetic composite work—no tooth prep required.
Stain Removal with Sodium Bicarbonate
For quick stain removal, sodium bicarbonate offers a conservative and effective solution.
Making Air Abrasion Easy: The Etchmaster Solution
When I first began to experiment with air abrasion, the biggest challenge was the equipment and managing the logistics. The Etchmaster is a compact 3–4 inch handpiece that connects easily to your existing unit.
Key benefits include:
- Controlled pressure for precise application
- Pre-filled powder tips for easy swapping between particle types
- No messy reservoirs or guesswork
- Cleaner working area—no clouds of residual powder
Once integrated into your workflow, the uses for air abrasion seem to grow daily.
I recommend all dentists register for the upcoming “Direct Composite For Complex Case Management” at The Pankey Institute to improve their skills in adhesive dentistry and enhance restorative outcomes. Led by the renowned Dr. Riccardo Ammannato from Italy, who lectures around the world on hybrid adhesive techniques, this course will focus on direct and indirect adhesive approaches to bond to worn dentition, additive partial indirect restorations with composite and ceramic, depending on the indication.
