Comparison Between Different Air Abrasion Techniques on Enamel Fissure Preparation

Abrasion as a technique was already introduced to dentistry in 1945 yet has only recently become popular,since the advantages and benefits of minimal invasive dentistry have become widely known. Objectives:The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of two different air abrasion techniques on fissure enamel. Methods:The two systems that were compared :Aqua Cut 4 Quattro Velopex and the Air Touch Midwest.Cavities were prepared on extracted human molar and premolar teeth.The cavities prepared with both techniques were investigated and compared according to the depth and diameter as well as the marginal integrity of the cavity.Flat plastic surfaces were used to compare the radiation of Aluminium oxide particles created by the Air Touch and Aqua Cut systems.The nozzle of the Aqua Cut system was investigated after 28 seconds of use.After preparation,the teeth were spattered in gold and viewed under a scanning microscope JSM 5800LV. Results:Results demonstrated the margins of cavities cut by the Air Touch system to be better defined than the margins of cavities cut by the Acqua Cut system.Less damage was done to the adjacent tooth structure by the Air Touch system. No difference in cavity depth could be noted between the cavities cut by both the systems.The nozzle of the Aqua Cut system showed an increase in diameter and damaged margins after 28 seconds of use. Conclusion:There is no doubt that air abrasion techniques will play a role in the future of minimal invasive dentistry.However a learning curve is involved with the use of both air abrasion systems,as a thin line remain between successfully cleaning out occlusal fissures and the failure to do so.