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For many people, the sound of a dental drill is the most stressful part of a dentist visit. At our Bellevue practice, we’re proud to offer air abrasion — a modern, gentle alternative to traditional drilling that can make your dental experience more comfortable and less intimidating.
Compared to traditional drilling, air abrasion in Bothell produces less heat, vibration, and pressure, making it easier on your teeth and gums. Many patients report that the procedure feels significaAir abrasion in Bellevue is a minimally invasive technique that uses a stream of fine particles and air to remove small areas of decay, old fillings, or surface stains. Think of it like a tiny, high-tech sandblaster for your teeth, but one that works quietly, without vibration, and often without the need for anesthesia.ntly more comfortable, with little to no discomfort during or after treatment.
The biggest advantage of air abrasion is comfort. Because it doesn’t produce the heat, pressure, or noise of a drill, it’s ideal for patients who are anxious about dental work. It’s also highly precise, allowing us to preserve more of your natural tooth structure. This makes it a great choice for treating small cavities, especially in children or adults who want a gentler approach.
Other benefits include:
During your appointment, we’ll use a special handpiece that delivers a controlled stream of tiny abrasive particles (usually aluminum oxide) mixed with air. These particles gently remove decayed areas or prepare the tooth surface for bonding or sealants. Because the process is so targeted, it avoids unnecessary removal of healthy tooth material. You’ll relax in the chair — no loud whirring, no high-pitched drill noise, and very little sensation beyond a gentle airflow. For most patients, the experience is surprisingly quick and easy.
In our Bellevue dental office, we use air abrasion for:
Treating small cavities without anesthesia
Preparing teeth for sealants
Removing surface stains or discoloration
Removing old composite restorations
Smoothing out minor chips or imperfections
While it’s not suitable for all types of decay or very large cavities, it’s an excellent option in many cases — especially for preventive and early-stage dental care.
We understand that comfort is just as important as quality when it comes to dental care. Air abrasion near you lets us offer a less invasive, more patient-friendly approach that helps you stay relaxed while getting the treatment you need.
If you’ve been putting off dental work because you’re worried about drills, shots, or discomfort, air abrasion might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
