Advanced Dental Technology
Digital imaging
Patients often worry about their exposure when X-rays are taken, yet they are a necessity when the dentist develops a treatment plan. Our office chooses to make use of digital imaging and only takes images when they are necessary, using numerous guidelines when coming to this determination. The radiograph is employed to find cavities that may be lurking between the teeth, assess the level of bone in the mouth and its health, and more. In addition to using the images to diagnose problems, they are helpful in the treatment and maintenance of the patient’s teeth, gums, and jaws. They allow the dentist to see the nerves and roots of each tooth, detect any lesions present in the oral cavity, and more.
Digital imaging reduces the exposure time of the patient by approximately 50 percent when compared to conventional pictures. Also, the images are more transparent, allowing problems to be detected at an earlier stage. Finally, payment is made promptly, as the photos can be shared with insurance companies quickly and easily, and specialists may be called in to evaluate the images and determine if further care is needed. As no additional images need to be made, any specialized treatment may begin sooner, and this is always preferred.
Intraoral cameras
Intraoral cameras benefit patients, as these devices also allow problems to be detected at an earlier stage. Besides, they will enable the dentist to clearly show the patient where the problem lies and how serious it is. This tiny camera, typically only a few millimeters in length, provides sharp, clear images that are easy to read and picks up on details that may be overlooked with the traditional exam that makes use of the dentist’s eye and a small mirror. As a result, a diagnosis can be made in less time, allowing the patient to continue with their life promptly, and the images can be saved as a permanent record, as mentioned above.
Air Abrasion
Patients often avoid the dentist because they don’t like the drill. Not only do they dislike the noise produced by the device, but the heat and vibration that result from its use can also make them uncomfortable. Thanks to air abrasion, this no longer has to be an issue. Air abrasion involves the use of a device that functions much like a mini-sandblaster. This device sprays away any tooth decay by aiming a beautiful stream of particles at the affected portion of the tooth. The particles are composed of a baking soda mixture, aluminum oxide, or silica and are powered by a stream of gas or compressed air running through the device. Any decayed material is then suctioned into a thin tube and removed from the mouth.
With air abrasion, no heat is generated, there is no vibration, and the patient feels no pressure. More of the healthy tooth can be preserved when this option is chosen, and patients often find they need less anesthesia, if any, at all. The procedure is an easy one, although more time may be required to repair the tooth than is necessary with conventional drilling, and the risk of the tooth chipping or fracturing is reduced. Many dentists believe this helps to increase a filling’s lifespan. Speak to the dentist to determine if this is an option, as there are situations when this technique cannot be used, such as when preparing a tooth for a crown.
These are only a few of the many ways we use advanced technology in our office. There are numerous others, such as sedation dentistry, single-tooth anesthesia, and more. Contact our office today to discuss your treatment options and how technology may be of help in carrying out your treatment plan. We are happy to answer all of your questions and work with you to find the plan that best meets your needs, whether it makes use of this technology or can be completed using more conventional methods. The goal is to find the options that you are most comfortable with, regardless of what they are, as we understand you have your preferences. We keep these in mind because we want you to be comfortable when you visit us for your dental needs. That’s our top priority at all times.
Zoom Whitening
This phenomenal teeth whitening practice allows us to quickly and efficiently give you the beautiful, new pearly whites you have been hoping for. With Zoom! Teeth Whitening, a recent study showed that you could achieve an average improvement of six shades of tooth color using this process.
Precision Dentistry
By utilizing all the latest and greatest dental technologies we can offer our new and existing patients, we can afford them the most precise and useful dental experience in Washington DC. With our precision dentistry, you can rest assured your service is being accomplished correctly the first time around. In addition to the technologies mentioned earlier, we also utilize intraoral cameras and single-tooth anesthesia to provide you a more effective and comfortable dental experience. Regardless of whether you are visiting to cure gum disease, have regular cleaning, or take advantage of one of our many cosmetic dentistry services, we utilize the best technology available.
Contact the Washington Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today so we can develop a treatment plan that addresses your dental needs. Regardless of whether you are missing teeth, have a problem with your bite, or stained teeth, we have a solution for you. Our goal is to meet all of your oral care needs, from general dentistry to cosmetic procedures.