A minimally invasive approach aims to remove only the diseased area while showing maximum respect for healthy tooth tissue. Traditional high-speed diamond burs inevitably cut through the surrounding healthy enamel and create microscopic mechanical cracks in the tooth while cleaning the decay. In the “Air-Abrasion” technique, however, a rotating bur is not used. Very fine “Aluminum Oxide” micro-powders are sprayed onto the tooth surface with high-pressure air (dental sandblasting). These powders microscopically lick away and remove only the softened and decayed tissue, never touching the hard and healthy enamel. Since no vibration, friction heat, or sound is generated during this process, the patient does not experience pain; in most cases, the filling socket is prepared with perfect roughness without the need for anesthesia (injection).
