When it comes to dental care, innovations like air polishing have really gained some attention. However, several myths circulating around the procedure have mislead people about its safety, comfort, and purpose. Here, we will debunk five common myths that surround air polishing.
What is Air Polishing?
Air polishing is a dental procedure that blasts compressed air, water, and a fine abrasive powder onto the teeth to remove surface stains, plaque, and soft deposits from them.
Myth 1: Air Polishing is Harmful to The Enamel
The myth most commonly held is that air polishing can damage the tooth enamel of a patient. Most likely, this myth has been passed down in light of the fact that so many people do not understand the process at all.
How Air Polishing Works
Air polishing is done by shooting pressurized air, water, and powder at the teeth. Most of the time, the powders are either made from sodium bicarbonate or glycine, both having non-abrasive properties to the enamel, while cleaning effectively any stains and plaque.
Myth 2: Air Polishing Is Painful
Another very common concern is that this is a painful procedure, which often deters people from trying it.
What does Air Polishing Feel like?
Air polishing leaves a light, almost tickling type of sensation. Air polishing does not bring the scraping sensation some patients feel with conventional cleaning. The fine powder does not irritate the gums or tooth; hence, it is suitable for the teeth and gums of sensitive individuals.
Pain Comparison with Other Procedures
Compared to other dental procedures, air polishing when done by the best dentist Blackpool offers, is somewhere at the lower end of the discomfort scale. Procedures like scaling or root planning are more uncomfortable because sharp instruments are used, while the process of air polishing is neither invasive nor harsh.
Myth 3: Air Polishing Is Only for Cosmetic Purposes
Another common belief system would be the fact that air polishing is only for cosmetic purposes, such as irreversible tooth whitening or removing tooth stains.
Dental Benefits Beyond Cosmetics
Air polishing is capable of removing plaque and bacteria from areas that are hard to reach, in turn lowering the possibility of one getting gum disease or tooth decay.
Myth 4: Air Polishing Is Expensive
Cost is the main argument against air polishing. Most patients feel that it is an expensive procedure compared to a regular cleaning.
Long-Term Savings through Preventive Care
Long-term, air polishing is very cost-effective since it prevents more serious dental issues from arising. In reducing the risks of cavities and gum diseases, patients would also be reducing their chances of getting costly treatments in the future.
Myth 5: Air Polishing Is Only for Specific Dental Conditions
Some believe that air polishing is only suitable for certain dental conditions, such as severe staining or plaque build-up.
Versatility in Dental Procedures
Air polishing can be a very useful procedure in various dental treatments, including regular cleanings, periodontal maintenance treatments, and pre-orthodontic treatments to provide a clean surface for patients who are about to get braces.
Final Thoughts
Air polishing is a safe, efficient, and versatile method of maintaining oral health. Do not let the myths mislead and stop you from considering it as an option during your next visit to the dentist.
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