While stars, neon signs and flat screen television sets all feature plasma beams, new advancements in dentistry may be using the technology in lieu of the drill.
Currently a dental drill is the most commonly used tool by professional dentists. The device is essential in removing decayed tooth material ahead of introducing a dental filling to the mix.
According to a study released by the Journal of Medical Microbiology, "firing low temperature plasma beams at teeth can reduce the amount of dental bacteria in a patient's mouth by up to 10,000 times" (Health Day News). Based on this fact, German researchers have been tinkering with plasma jet beams as an alternative to conventional dental drilling techniques. Plasma is a substance similar to gas and features ionized particles.
German scientists are using cold plasma in the studies. The procedure does not require any direct dental contact, reducing the pain associated with dentistry. The plasma jets are aimed directly at dentin, (the fibrous tooth material located beneath the enamel coating.
The plasma beams were specifically used to target Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus casei, which are both extremely common types of oral bacteria. These particular types oral pathogens contribute to the odd phenomenon of having "sweaters on your teeth" or film on the tooth surface. The film can then erode both tooth enamel and dentin.
The research team focused the beams on infected areas in time increments ranging between six and 18 seconds. According to the study, reduction of dental bacteria worked in direct correlation to the amount of time of the plasma beam. The longer the exposure, the more bacteria were wiped out.
Study leader, Dr. Stefan Rupf of Saarland University has estimated that the technology may start appearing in dental practices within three to five years (BBC News). Until that time, consumers will have to rely on brushing and flossing and dental cleanings to help control any tooth area at risk for infection.
If you cannot remember the last time you saw a dentist, then it is time to go get a check up. With a discount dental plan from MyUSADentalCare.com, you may be able to offset your dental expenses anywhere from 10 percent to 60 percent.
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