Air Abrasion


Air abrasion is a drill-less technique that is being used by some dentists to remove tooth decay and to perform other procedures.

Air Abrasion Dental Tool

How Does Air Abrasion Work?

During air abrasion, an instrument that works like a mini sandblaster is used to spray away decay. A fine stream of particles, made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture, are propelled toward the stained or decayed portion of the tooth’s surface by compressed air or a gas that runs through the dental hand piece. Small particles of decay on the tooth surface are removed as the stream of particles strikes them. The particles of decay are then "suctioned" away through a thin tube.

What Are the Advantages of Air Abrasion?

Compared with the traditional drilling method, the advantages of air abrasion are many and include the following:

Air abrasion generates no heat, pressure, or vibration.

Air abrasion sometimes reduces the need for anesthesia, particularly if the cavity is shallow.

Air abrasion leaves more of the healthy tooth tissue behind.

Air abrasion reduces the risk of fracturing and chipping of the tooth, which some dentists believe can affect the life span of the filling.

The procedure is relatively simple, although it may take longer than traditional drilling.

What Are the Disadvantages?

Air abrasion is not necessarily free of pain. The air and abrasive particles can cause sensitivity.

Air abrasion is not recommended for deep cavities (those close to the tooth's pulp). It is best suited for removing small cavities that form early on the surface of teeth.

If hard enamel needs to be removed to access the decay, this cannot be done with air abrasion and a traditional drill and bur must be used. Once access to the decay has been achieved, air abrasion can then be used.

Crowns, onlays, and inlays cannot be prepared using air abrasion.


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