What Is Micro-air-abrasion?
Micro air abrasion is a tool used to remove decay and old fillings using a fine stream of aluminum oxide powder (27.5 micron particle size) and compressed air. This technology allows for very precise and rapid cutting. The higher end units have a greater selection of tip combinations and other different features, which enhance performance.
Micro-air-abrasion refers to a technology that involves blowing minute sand particles on the surface of a tooth with a controlled stream of air. Almost invisible particles are blown on the tooth through a tube with a pin-sized hole to dust away decayed and stained surfaces. While it is silently doing some of the work of the drill, it is decreasing dentinal sensitivity, increasing bond strengths, and producing none of the enamel crazing that can occur with high-speed drilling. The unit can often be used without pain and without the need for a local anesthetic. Micro-air-abrasion allows for the most conservative restorations in dentistry. In use in our office since 1995, we believe that there is no substitute for the qualities that this technology offers.
