aluminum oxide air abrasion

What is Aluminum Oxide Air Abrasion?

Air abrasion involves blasting a surface with a stream of abrasive particles using compressed air. Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) is the most commonly used abrasive because it’s:

• Very hard (harder than most dental materials and enamel)

• Non-toxic and inert

• Available in ultra-fine particle sizes (often 27–50 microns)

🦷 Common Applications in Dentistry:

1. Cavity preparation – Removes decayed enamel/dentin without using a drill.

2. Surface roughening – Prepares tooth/enamel for bonding or sealants.

3. Cleaning – Removes stains or cement remnants.

4. Orthodontic procedures – Cleans brackets and prepares enamel for bonding.

🔧 Process:

• A handheld device emits a stream of aluminum oxide particles toward the surface.

• Particles impact the surface, removing material without heat, vibration, or sound.

• Usually used with a vacuum suction to collect particles and debris.

✅ Advantages:

• Minimally invasive (preserves healthy tooth structure)

• No vibration or pressure (often no anesthesia needed)

• Less noise = better patient comfort

⚠️ Limitations:

• Not ideal for deep or large cavities

• Ineffective on soft tissue or deep caries

• Requires isolation and good suction to avoid inhalation or contamination