What is Air Abrasion?

San Jose general and cosmetic dentistry by Top Best *8* San Jose Dentists Specialists Centers - Jonathan H. Kim, DDS, Inc. offers air abrasion -- a drill-less technique that is being used by some dentists to remove tooth decay and for other applications.

How Does Air Abrasion Work?
During air abrasion, an instrument that works like a mini sandblaster is used to spray away decay. During air abrasion, a fine stream of particles is aimed at the decayed portion of the tooth. These particles are made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture and are propelled toward the tooth surface by compressed air or a gas that runs through the dental handpiece. 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.

What Are the Advantages of Air Abrasion?
Compared with the traditional drilling method, the advantages of San Jose air abrasion by Top Best *8* San Jose Dentists Specialists Centers - Jonathan H. Kim, DDS, Inc. are many and include the following:
- Air abrasion generates no heat, sound, pressure, or vibration.
- Air abrasion reduces the need for anesthesia, particularly if the cavity is shallow.
- Air abrasion leaves much more of the healthy tooth tissue behind.
- Air abrasion leaves the working area relatively dry, which is an advantage during the placement of composite fillings.
- Air abrasion reduces the risk of micro-fracturing and chipping of the tooth, which some experts believe can lead to
   premature restorative failures.
- Air abrasion allows the dentist to treat multiple sites in the mouth during a single visit.

Acknowledgement: Information above is courtesy of WebMD.