Dental treatment method

Abstract

A system of treating teeth or associated tooth structure by the use of abrasive-laden fluid stream provides fluid at high pressure to a manifold with selectively operable valves delivers fluid at a selected pressure to a device for mixing the fluid with abrasive and delivers the air/abrasive mix to a hand-held device for application of an abrasive-laden stream to a tooth or associated tooth structure. Priming air at a relatively low pressure pressurizes the air abrasive device. A flow path for pure air bypasses the air/abrasive device. A selective control allows the operator to deliver a stream of air or air and abrasive to the tooth or associated tooth structure as desired. Preferably the fluid pressure is controlled by a manually-operable servo valve system. Upon termination of a treatment with the air abrasive mix, the pure air is diverted through a purge line to purge the system downstream from the abrasive device of excess abrasive particles. A vacuum system is selectively operable to remove abrasive particles and debris from the region of the mouth of the patient during and after the abrasive treatment operation. The abrasive delivery device may include a hand-held and manipulatable nozzle device having fluid ports operable by the fingers of the operator to control various functions of the instrument. The vacuum system includes a rigid, disposable collection chamber for sterile disposal of the abrasive material and debris and may include a common filter for the purge circuit and the system for removal of abrasive particles and debris from the patient's mouth. Connection to the existing suction system in the dental office or use of a water powered venturi to provide suction is also disclosed. Pressure regulating and relief means insure instantaneous change from one pressure level to the next.