Minimally invasive dentistry is the need of the hour as the conventional ‘extension for prevention’ is being challenged and the more conservative forms of operative intervention are being recommended.
Air abrasion for restoration preparation removes tooth structure using a stream of aluminium oxide particles generated from compressed air. This technique does not require the use of anesthesia and is used instead of the bur making it a child friendly approach.
Specific indications for use of air abrasion include caries removal; removal of small existing restorations; preparation of tooth structure for cutting or etching for the placement of composites, porcelain and ceramics; and as an adjunct to the conventional hand piece bur.