Air abrasion is a drill-less technique that is being used by some dentists to remove early, small areas of tooth decay and to perform other procedures. During air abrasion, an instrument that works like a mini sandblaster is used to spray away decay. During air abrasion, a fine stream of particles (silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture) is aimed at the stained or decayed portion of the tooth. Small particles of decay on the tooth surface are removed as the stream of particles strikes them. The particles of decay are then “suctioned” away through a thin tube.

The only precautions needed before air abrasion are protective eye wear (to prevent eye irritation) and the use of a rubber dam (around teeth) or protective resin applied to nearby teeth and gums to protect areas of the mouth that aren’t being treated. The suctioning of particles also prevents them from being breathed into the lungs. Dental treatment with abrasive equipment began in the 1940’s in the United States, invented by dentist Robert Black, and the first commercial product was launched by SS White. At the same time, another completely different product was launched, the high-speed turbine became clearly winning even if the turbine eliminates more than the necessary healthy tooth matter. Air abrasion technology has improved, and serial products have been re-launched in the US market in the late 1980’s. In 1999 14 different air abrasion products were identified from a total of 12 suppliers in the USA alone. The method has throughout the years become very popular in the US where approx. about a quarter of all-American dentists have purchased equipment. The problem of controlling overspray (12,000 hPA) from the product made many dentists abandon the use of the equipment, as the patient, the dentist and the surrounding area was ‘covered in dust’ during the treatment. In 1998 Danish dentist Dr. Ove Rasmussen invented an air abrasion method, whereby the use of powder as well as the working pressure could be reduced. Having founded Sandman ApS in the beginning of 2001 aided by NOVI Innovation the method was patented and a development of an instrument was begun.

In 2006 developed a simplified and combined fixed and mobile unit, solely pneumatically operated, SANDMAN™ Futura. The patented technology makes it possible to control the mix of air/aluminium oxide ratio at low pressure of 1800-5000 hPA reducing the dust problems significantly at the same time. The evolving product designs are realized in state-of-the-art technology quality tests are based on internationally recognized standards to ensure high product quality and patients safety. The technology is functional and has throughout the last 7 years treated thousands of patients without side effects and overspray. 86% of patients expressed that the pain using Sandman was far less than using conventional burs. 100% of the patients would choose air abrasion after trying both systems of treatment. At the Holistic Dental & Medical Institute, Dr. Constantinescu uses SANDMAN™ Futura in all restorative and conservative treatments, especially for complicated deep caries cases for saving tooth vitality where else the alternative is the unwanted endodontic treatment.

Go to https://sandman-dental.com for further information.