The AirTouch Tower is Dentsply/Midwest's top of the line self-contained air abrasion system. Air abrasion provides an alternative to the high-speed handpiece for removing caries from tooth structure. Dentsply/Midwest reports it is indicated for sealants, Class I, Class II tunnel preparations, Class III, Class IV, root caries, removal of composite and stains, and porcelain repair. Its many purported advantages compared to traditional preparation procedures include: less invasive, more conservative treatment; reduced need for local anesthetic; earlier and more accurate diagnosis which reduces under- or over-treatment; reduction or elimination of vibration, chipping, and micro-fracturing; and immediate beveling of cavo surfaces. The AirTouch Tower is available with either single or dual powder chambers for use with 27- or 50-micron aluminum oxide powder. It is available in two different models based on whether pressurized air or gas is used to cause the flow of aluminum oxide. One model provides pressurized air with a built-in 1/3 horsepower oil-less compressor, while the other other uses a built-in CO2 tank. In addition, the AirTouch Tower is the only air abrasion system to provide both intra-oral and extra-oral powder evacuation. The digital display membrane touchpanel allows the user to regulate the air pressure (40 to 120 psi in 10-psi increments), cutting time (0.2 to 2.5 sec in 0.5-sec increments and continuous mode), powder size (27 or 50 microns), and includes a separate powder boost mode for increased powder flow when more powerful cutting is required. A memory function allows recall of preferred pre-set pressure and cutting settings. The Smart Digital Display provides continuous information and instructions on use and maintenance. Handpiece nozzles are available in three different angulations (45°, 90°, and 120°) and three different orifice diameters (.015", .018", and .027") for increased versatility. The AirTouch Tower measures 35"H x 14"W x 17.5"D and weighs 130 pounds (compressor model) or 99 pounds (CO2 tank model). The unit is available in 110V and 220V models and is UL listed and CSA certified
The portable and self contained mobile AirTouch Tower is easy to move from operatory to operatory. Multiple nozzle angulations and orifice diameters, multiple air pressure settings, multiple settings for cutting times, and the ability to easily switch between powder sizes allow the clinician flexibility and control. It is the only system to provide both intra- and extra-oral evacuation. The membrane touchpad controls are logical and organized, and the unit comes with an excellent instruction manual and videotape. A membrane filter provides moisture control and the unit contains a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter to reduce airborne pathogens in evacuation exhaust. The handpieces are autoclavable and the unit is easily cleaned or barrier protected. The unit is quiet [68 dB(A)] and is UL listed and CSA certified for electrical safety.
This expensive unit offers limited clinical indications over highspeed handpieces for general dental practices. Clinical evaluators reported that 70 to 80% of procedures still required local anesthesia. Depth and width of tooth preparations are difficult to control, tactile feel during tooth preparation is lost, and powder overspray is messy and limits view of the working area. This system was not effective in removing soft carries. Removing the evacuation assembly for autoclaving can tear the suction hose.
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.
