Air Abrasion A Step Into The Future

No Pain, No Injection and No Drilling

Air Abrasion is one of the newest innovations in dentistry is also one of the most conservative, and it is rapidly developing a reputation as the procedure of choice for removing small- and medium-sized carious lesions.



The procedure can remove small areas of decay (caries) on a tooth in a matter of minutes, without the use of anesthesia and without the dentist having to grind away healthy tooth structure in order to ensure a proper surface to receive traditional amalgam fillings. Once the caries are removed, the small defect can be filled with a tooth-colored composite that is just as durable as amalgams and more cosmetically pleasing, as well.



The procedure is air abrasive micro-dentistry.

"Air abrasion is a new technology that supports the goal of preventive dentistry, allowing us to address very small areas of decay," states Dr. Braich.



"Tiny aluminum oxide particles-less than 50 microns in diameter – are placed under extremely high pressure. A stream of these particles is directed onto the area of decay through a hand piece with a tiny opening so small that a needle may have trouble passing through the tip," he explains.



Despite its efficiency in eliminating caries, the air abrasion system does not affect soft tissue. Dr. Braich mentions that the air abrasion instrument can be held over the hand without creating any discomfort or damage. "The abrasive particles are so small, with so little mass, that the soft tissue is protected from injury. As soon as the particles hit soft tissue, they bounce away," he comments.

The air abrasion procedure is painless; in most cases the patient does not need an anesthetic. "This is a great step forward," notes Dr. Braich.

"It means we can work on decay developing all around the mouth, in a single appointment, without having to numb a large area of the patient’s face.



"The air abrasion system truly takes dentistry into the 21st Century," stresses Dr. Braich. "We are able to treat our patients in less time and conserve vital tooth structure in a painless, needle-free fashion."