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Airdent

Circa 1955 | Object # 0021.0001

Air abrasion dentistry evolved over as a drill‑less technique to excavate caries while preserving the tooth structure. The use of air abrasion technology was introduced in 1951 with the Airdent air abrasion unit.

Credits:

Hegde VS, Khatavkar RA. A new dimension to conservative dentistry: Air abrasion. J Conserv Dent 2010;13:4‑8.

National Museum of American History

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Airdent in use on patient

During air abrasion, a fine stream of particles is aimed at the decayed portion of the tooth by compressed air or gas that runs through the dental handpiece. These particles were made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture.