Air Abrasion

One of the most nerve-wracking experiences for patients is the sound and feeling of the dental drill, also called a handpiece. Sometimes, shallow cavities do not require a handpiece. In these cases, air abrasion may be used.

The air abrasion system replaces a conventional dental drill in the preparation of tooth surfaces when filling cavities. A thin, direct stream of aluminum oxide particles (driven by compressed air at high velocity) "blasts" away decay with virtually no loss of healthy tooth material. The technique is limited to use on cavities close to or on the surface. which makes it useful for about 80% of children and 40% of adults.