Ultrasonic Abrasion: An Alternative for Cavity Preparation

Introduction: Restorative dentistry aims to repair damages caused by caries disease. Along the years, researchers have developed effective and less invasive methods with the goal of preserving the teeth from caries destruction. Therefore, the improvement of scientific knowledge, auxiliary diagnostic systems, dental materials, and new instruments has changed the approaches and treatments in this field. In addition to conservative removal of carious tissue, patient’s comfort has also become a concern in modern dentistry.Purpose: Considering that ultrasonic abrasion has attracted great interest of dental professionals, this article discusses an alternative technique for cavity preparation by literature review, addressing its indications, contra-indications, advantages and limitations compared to the conventional high-speed method.Conclusion: There are not many studies on this subject. The available studies have demonstrated several qualities of the ultrasonic abrasion system, but some aspects remain unclear. Therefore, it is important to highlight that laboratorial and clinical studies in primary/permanent teeth should be conducted to elucidate questionable issues, such as time of cavity preparation, topography, presence of smear layer and microleakage, in order to offer safety to the extensive use of this new technology for both the professional and the patient. In this context, the dentist should always be attentive to innovations referring to minimally invasive techniques.