Professional teeth hygiene: APS - air polishing system
What is Air Polishing System?
APS is a professional hygiene procedure, which aim is to clean the teeth from the cavity and sediment by using air. Air-polishing devices (APDs) are highly effective in removing plaque and extrinsic staining. Their application on root surfaces, however, may result in clinically relevant substance removal, limiting the use in patients with periodontitis, where denuded root surfaces are frequently found.
How does the procedure look like?
The angle of incidence of the spray jet should be 60-90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the tooth. KaVo prophy flex 3 operates in a very simple way. The powder container contains sufficient powder for professional tooth cleaning. Compressed air is supplied to the handpiece via the KaVo multi flex coupling. When the foot control is pressed, compressed air flows into the powder container. It mixes uniformly with the powder, and the mixture flows to the exit of the cannula.
At the same time, the water - strictly separated from air and powder - is fed to the exit. There, the water sheath surrounds the powder/air mixture. Two non-return valves prevent the mixture from flowing back to the multi flex coupling.
What are the indications for use?
- General post-scaling prophylaxis
- Cleaning of fissures, even deep ones
- Interproximal cleaning
- Tooth preparation prior to etching
- Neutralisation of acid before other dental procedures
- Removal of temporary cement residues
- Surface cleaning (for exact tooth colour determination prior to selection from shade guide)
- Cleaning of bands and brackets directly inside the mouth
- Tooth cleaning prior to fluoridation