Dentistry is not a field that stands still, so we can’t afford to either! Our team at ProSmiles works to stay at the forefront of all the latest developments in dental care so that we can continue to make each and every visit as comfortable and convenient for our patients as possible. This page goes over the details about some key examples of technology that we might use during your next appointment; contact us today to schedule an appointment and see the benefits of modern dental technology for yourself.
Digital X-Rays
With traditional radiography, x-rays are captured on traditional film. This process involves high levels of radiation, and the photos need to be developed in a separate chemical-filled darkroom. With digital technology, the images can be developed in just a few seconds for immediate viewing. Digital x-rays emit up to 90% less radiation than traditional x-rays, significantly lowering the risk for our patients – as well as the team members taking the x-rays in the first place.
Intraoral Camera
Have you ever felt lost or confused while your dentist was explaining a given dental health issue? It helps to be able to see the problem for yourself, but that’s not possible under normal circumstances. However, thanks to the help of our intraoral cameras, we’re able to capture detailed pictures of your teeth, gums, and other oral structures. These images can be displayed on our monitor so that we can show you what areas need treatment and explain the situation with a clear visual aid.
CT Scanner
CT is short for “computed tomography”. It is essentially a computer-controlled method of scanning the mouth in order to capture more details than we could with a regular x-ray machine. The scanner moves around the patient to produce a large number of images of the teeth, jaw, and various other oral structures. All of these images are then combined into a single three-dimensional model that can help us plan implant surgery and other extensive procedures.
Digital Impression System
As you might expect, a “digital” impression is different from the traditional molds that were primarily used when designing dental restorations. There is no material for you to bite down on; you just have to hold still for a few seconds while we scan your mouth and create a virtual model of the tooth or teeth in question. Digital impressions take less time than physical ones, and they also have a much higher success rate.
Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry
Many dentists are starting to use lasers instead of regular dental instruments to perform specific procedures, particularly periodontal therapy and other treatments involving the gums. When a laser is used to remove infected or damaged gum tissue, it can be carefully targeted so that it doesn’t affect the healthy parts of the mouth. Lasers are known to cause so little discomfort and bleeding that there is usually no need to numb the mouth, and the healing time afterward is much shorter.
The Wand
Anesthetic shots can keep you comfortable during dental work, but many people don’t enjoy the shots themselves. With The Wand, we can make the process of numbing your tooth a faster, more straightforward one. The device looks like a small pen with a cord attached to it, giving it a benign appearance that can help calm patients who are afraid of needles. The Wand allows us to control the flow of anesthesia to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Cavity Detection System
Dentists are thoroughly trained to look for cavities through visual and tactile examination as well as taking x-rays. However, these methods may not catch everything, which is where our advanced cavity detection system comes in. We can use it to highlight the parts of your mouth where decay is present; this makes it easier for us to catch cavities even when they’re small and have just started to form. This allows us to treat your cavities before they turn into major dental issues.
