The concept of air polishing is based on a technology developed by Dr. Robert Black in 1945. Black invented a device called the Air Dent, which used compressed air, water and a highly abrasive powder to eliminate pain from cavity preparation, making anesthesia unnecessary. Air polishing was first marketed in 1976. Air-powder polishing is accomplished by the propulsion of abrasive particles through a mixture of compressed air and water which is passed through a handpiece nozzle. Kinetic energy propels the air polishing abrasive particles against the tooth surface, thus removing stain and/or...