Air Abrasion

Air Abrasion is a cavity preparation process that uses a fine abrasive powder, called aluminum oxide. The powder is carried through pressurized air to cut tooth surfaces and remove decay.

Both Air Abrasion and conventional drilling methods achieve the same results, cavity preparation and treatment. Because Air Abrasion is able to remove much smaller sections of tooth material, it is particularly appropriate for treating small areas of decay or cavities in the earliest stages. By eliminating smaller amounts of tooth material, more of your healthy enamel is left intact. Dr. Rosenthal continues to use the conventional dental drill for larger cavities and restorations. Some of the more obvious differences you’ll notice with Air Abrasion are:

• Air Abrasion has a quieter, more soothing sound.
  
• Air Abrasion is usually faster than normal conventional drilling because many people find it tolerable without anesthetic.
  
• Air Abrasion is able to explore stains to catch and treat minor decay before it spreads.
  
• Because you probably won’t need an anesthetic, your doctor may be able to treat several cavities in one visit.

Air Abrasion is a very safe procedure. The tiny abrasive particles are pure aluminum oxide, a biocompatible substance long used in medicine and food. In fact it is a prime ingredient in several whitening toothpastes. Due to the speed and efficiency of the AirTouch system, only a very small quantity is used. Most of the abrasive particles are quickly removed by the dental assistant with the highly efficient vacuum system. However, there are some safety precautions we feel are necessary. Safety goggles are used to protect your eyes during treatment and a barrier will occasionally be used to protect other teeth not being treated.

Only tooth-colored, composite filling material is used in Air Abrasion procedures. Silver-colored, or amalgam filling material is not used, since the rounded preparation made with Air Abrasion is not able to hold the amalgam material securely. This leaves your tooth looking very natural, as if you did not have a cavity at all. Air Abrasion is just one more reason why Dr. Rosenthal can help you achieve a more beautiful smile.

The information contained in this site should not be used in place of a dentist or qualified dental provider. Vistors are urged to have a good relationship with a dentist. Please consult your dentist before any treatment or therapy is initiated.