title: The effectiveness of the air-powder abrasive device on the tooth and periodontium: an overview.
abstract: The characteristics of the air-powder abrasive device (APAD) was reviewed from the current dental literature and found to be an excellent alternative to traditional methods for stain and plaque removal. Access to crowded teeth, grooves and involved furcation areas are easily obtainable with less operator fatigue. The APAD slurry produces different root surface abrasiveness, depending on the method of use. Extended maintenance periods of exposed root surface using the APAD can result in an enormous loss of root structure. To avoid permanent damage of the root, the device should be used with overlapping strokes and root exposure to the APAD slurry should be minimized. The device can be used for total cementum removal with less operator fatigue and more reproducibility than with hand instruments, leaving smooth and clean surfaces. In addition, the device may be a valuable tool in the detoxification of root surfaces during periodontal surgery.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Kozlovsky
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Soldinger
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Sperling
mesh_terms: D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000628:therapy; D003777:Dental Prophylaxis / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010519:Periodontium; D014075:Tooth Discoloration / Q000628:therapy; D014092:Tooth Root