Air abrasion is a method of preparing teeth for sealants or even fillings.
Air abrasion is performed by a thin stream of special abrasive powder that is blown on the tooth under air pressure.It is extremely conservative and saves tooth structure. And because it is so gentle and does not generate heat, noise or vibration, most of the time anesthesia is unnecessary.
Here you see two teeth that have stained grooves. Each was opened with air abrasion without the use of any anesthetic, shots or needles.
...AND THE FINISHED RESTORATIONS
The tooth on the left got a sealant and the right was a regular filling
Patients who have had it often beg to have all their fillings done this way because it is so much more comfortable. Unfortunately not all fillings can be done with this method, but Dr. Krauss tries to utilize it whenever possible to help our patients be as comfortable as possible.
"This is the best filling I ever had, honestly." --Robert Sloan