That includes training for the dentist. Still, some dentists say they are putting off buying a laser for treating cavities, at least for the near future. But we're not using it yet. We're waiting for long-term studies and newer tools. The other alternative to the traditional high-speed handpiece is the air abrasion handpiece.
Air abrasion involves the use of a high-pressured instrument similar to a tiny sandblaster.
A stream of tiny aluminum oxide particles cuts away the decay. There is no heat and no vibration, and often, it can be used without anesthesia. Fillings Once decay is removed, a filling is placed inside the cut-out area to retain the tooth's shape and function, including chewing. Today, a variety of filling materials is available. One of the oldest and now most commonly used is amalgam, a metal alloy of silver, tin, copper, and sometimes indium, palladium and zinc that is mixed with about an equal amount of mercury.