Hygiene Atlas

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Air polisher

Also called: Prophy-Jet, air powder polisher, air polishing unit

A handpiece that blasts a fine powder, air and water to remove stain and biofilm.

An air polisher sprays a mix of air, water and a fine powder to clean stain and biofilm off teeth. Some powders are gentle enough for root surfaces and implants (for example glycine or erythritol), while sodium bicarbonate is more abrasive and not for every patient. It makes a lot of spray.

How to spot it

  • A handpiece with a small powder chamber, or a stand-alone unit with a powder bowl and hose.

What it is used for

  • The hygienist uses it for stain and biofilm removal; the assistant holds HVE and protects the patient's eyes and lips.

Safety and care

  • Sodium bicarbonate powder is not for patients on sodium-restricted diets or with certain respiratory, kidney or metabolic conditions; check with the clinician.
  • Heavy aerosol: use HVE, mask and eye protection.
  • Clean, refill and sterilize parts per the manufacturer's instructions.

Related

Sources: Boyd LD, Mallonee LF, Wyche CJ. Wilkins' Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist, 14th ed. Jones & Bartlett, 2024, Gehrig JS, Shin DE. Fundamentals of Periodontal Instrumentation and Advanced Root Instrumentation, 9th ed. Jones & Bartlett, 2023 (plus Newman & Carranza's Clinical Periodontology), CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17)