Dental Services
Gentle Air Abrasion Treatment for Small Cavities
If you have a small cavity and want to fix it with as little drilling as possible, air abrasion treatment at Friendly Smiles Center can be a comfortable option. This minimally invasive approach uses a focused stream of tiny particles to remove early decay and prepare your tooth for a filling, often with little to no vibration. At our Mount Laurel office, Dr. Robert Chase and our team use air abrasion treatment whenever it is appropriate, so your tooth can be preserved with less removal of healthy enamel and a smoother overall experience. Schedule Appointment
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What to Expect During Air Abrasion Treatment
During your visit, Dr. Chase will first perform a thorough examination to confirm that air abrasion is appropriate for your specific cavity. If it is, we will gently isolate the tooth to keep the area dry, then direct a controlled stream of fine particles at the decayed area to clean it away. A small suction device collects the particles and debris as we work.
Once the decay is removed, the tooth is ready for a filling or sealant, often completed in the same visit. Our team will talk you through each step in simple terms, check on your comfort, and adjust as needed. If you are especially anxious, we can discuss sedation options to help you relax throughout the process.
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Why Patients Choose Air Abrasion
Air abrasion treatment is designed with your comfort and long-term oral health in mind. It is especially useful for small cavities and early decay on the chewing surfaces of teeth, where preserving healthy structure is important.
Benefits of air abrasion can include:
- Reduced need for traditional drilling in select cases
- Minimal vibration and pressure compared to a dental drill
- Conservative removal of only the decayed tooth structure
- A more comfortable experienc for many patients with dental anxiety
For patients who feel nervous about dental work, this approach can feel gentler and less intimidating. Paired with our calming atmosphere, blankets, and in-chair TVs, air abrasion fits naturally into the way we focus on making your visit as stress-free as possible.
FAQ
Gentle Air Abrasion Treatment for Small Cavities FAQs
Is Air Abrasion Treatment Painful?
Most patients find air abrasion very comfortable. Since it uses a stream of fine particles instead of a traditional drill, there is usually less vibration and pressure. If you are sensitive or nervous, we can discuss numbing or sedation options to help you feel at ease.
Am I a Candidate for Air Abrasion?
Air abrasion is typically best for small cavities, early decay, or surface staining. During your exam, Dr. Chase will evaluate your teeth and recommend whether air abrasion, traditional treatment, or another option is best for your situation.
Will I Still Need a Filling After Air Abrasion?
In most cases, yes. Air abrasion removes the decayed portion of the tooth, and then we place a filling or sealant to restore strength and protect the tooth from future decay.
Is Air Abrasion Safe for Children and Adults?
Air abrasion treatment can be appropriate for both children and adults when used in the right situations. Dr. Chase will review your oral health, age, and specific needs to determine if it is a good match.
How Long Does an Air Abrasion Appointment Take?
Appointment times vary based on how many teeth are being treated and the size of the cavity, but air abrasion for a single small cavity is typically a quick procedure, often completed in one visit along with your filling.
Will My Dental Insurance Cover Air Abrasion Treatment?
Friendly Smiles Center is not in network with dental insurance plans and does not accept Medicaid. We will gladly file your claim on your behalf to help maximize your available benefits. For affordable financing with fast approvals and available discounts, please see Payment Options & Policies.
Can Air Abrasion Replace the Dental Drill Completely?
Air abrasion is a great option for certain types of small cavities, but it is not the right choice for every situation. Some larger or deeper areas of decay still require traditional methods. At Friendly Smiles Center, we choose the approach that is safest and most effective for your individual needs.
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