Most of the times we avoid dental visits as we are scared of the pain the drills and needles will give us. But what if we could have our fillings placed painlessly without drills or needles? Air abrasion is a drill-less technique that is being used by some dentists to remove tooth decay and for other applications. Micro-fine particles are sprayed against the tooth in a very fine 'particle beam'. These particles gently blow away tooth decay. 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 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. Compared with the traditional drilling method, the advantages of air abrasion are- it generates no heat, sound, pressure or vibration, reduces the need for anesthesia, reduces the risk of micro fracturing and chipping of the tooth and hence prevents the need for future crowns and even root canals. The procedure is relatively simple and quick.

Sometimes Air abrasion can be painful as the air can cause sensitivity Air abrasion is ideal for use in children and others who are fearful and have minimal decay.
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