The Airbrator is a single-use, air abrasion handpiece marketed by Edge Dental. The device attaches to an existing dental unit air line (60-80 psi recommended) via a handpiece hose adapter/connector and is said to have a patented delivery system that maintains particle flow and minimizes powder overspray. The Airbrator is claimed to have certain advantages over traditional compressor-driven air abrasion units. Among these are that it requires no maintenance, no refilling, and is disposable. Also, because it is self-contained, it should be simple to set up and not require bulky accessory or auxiliary equipment. The Airbrator is available in three types: 1) Light-Performance Abrasion Polishing and Cleaning (sodium bicarbonate powder) for removing stains and cleaning; 2) Medium-Performance Abrasion for precise abrasion; and 3) High-Performance Abrasion for comprehensive tooth preparation. The manufacturer states that both the Medium- and High-Performance units use 50-micron aluminum oxide. The cutting efficiency of the High Performance is said to result from using aluminum oxide particles that have more jagged edges produced from a different milling process. The Airbrator starter kit includes three High- Performance Abrasion handpieces, a Medium-Performance handpiece, two Light-Performance handpieces, and a handpiece hose connector.
The easy to set up Airbrator works well with existing dental units, and does not require a bulky or space-occupying compressor unit. It is also more conservative in removing tooth structure than higher pressure, compressor-powered air abrasion units. The handpiece functions well, without powder clogging, and because it is single use it enhances infection control and eliminates the need for sterilization. This unit works well for small, incipient lesions and the cleaning of pits and fissures, and is also useful for metal preparation prior to adhesive binding. Its instructions are easy to understand and it has a short learning curve.
The Airbrator does lack the power and efficiency of compressor-powered air abrasion units. Though the Medium- and High-Performance units use slightly different 50-micron aluminum oxide particles, there was little clinical difference seen between the two handpieces. As with all air abrasion systems, powder overspray does obscure treatment area. Since the handpieces are single use, cost per unit could become excessive for clinics with frequent need for air abrasion.
This review has been adapted from the DECS website. The DECS has no formal association with Dentalcompare or with vendors listed on dentalcompare.com. The DECS does not specifically endorse any particular product or vendor and is provided for informational purposes only.
