We only offer the best in technology at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics. We are a chartless office and also use digital photography, digital x-rays, intra-oral cameras, ultrasonic scalers, and CEREC CAD/CAM technology.
DIGITAL X-RAYS
X-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. Detecting issues with x-rays before they become problems can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for more extensive, expensive procedures or surgeries. X-rays are primarily used to detect:
- Internal tooth decay
- Cysts (fluid-filled sacks at the base of your teeth)
- Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous
- Impacted teeth
- Teeth that are still coming in
- Bone Loss
At South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics, we use digital x-rays which have several advantages over traditional film-based X-rays. Digital x-rays allow us to take x-rays with 1/5 of the radiation that you would receive from traditional dental x-rays. The risk of exposure to excess radiation is eliminated. Large, on-screen x-rays make patient communication more effective, allowing us to discuss your dental health quickly and accurately.
Digital radiography has greatly enhanced the practice of dentistry. It allows the patient and doctor to see images of the teeth in higher resolution on a large format for easier detection of problems, all while decreasing radiation exposure to the patient. The process we use further defines the radiograph, resulting in clinically meaningful images that are sharp, detailed, and rich in contrast. Images are available instantly after exposure, eliminating the wait and effort spent developing and mounting x-rays. If an image needs to be retaken, it can be done immediately. Digital format also allows us to send and receive your images electronically, allowing for a faster consultation with your dentist.
INTRA-ORAL CAMERA
X-rays give us a clear view of what we can’t see— such as decay between the teeth. An intraoral camera gives you, the patient, a view of what the dentist sees. An intraoral camera is a device that is about the size of a toothbrush. Broken fillings, fractured teeth, decay, or any other dental problem can be viewed so that we can discuss any treatment needed. With a clear understanding of your dental needs, we can decide your best treatment options together.
ULTRASONIC SCALERS
We use ultrasonic scalers for most adult dental cleanings. These devices use ultrasonic vibrations to help break down the plaque and calculus on the teeth that cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. These ultrasonic cleaners create microscopic bubbles that implode on the surface of the tooth, killing microbes and removing plaque and tartar in the process. Our instruments use a thin tip to better navigate the periodontal pockets and help maintain optimal gingival health. Some of the benefits of ultrasonic scaling include:
- The procedure uses only water— no chemicals are used.
- It can remove tartar buildup in hard-to-reach areas with no damage to the tooth enamel.
- Manual scaling often uses pressure for cleaning. However, the vibration produced by the scaling tip of an ultrasonic scaler is barely perceptible. This makes ultrasonic cleaning suitable to those with sensitive teeth.
- The cleaning process is faster than manual scaling, making your visit more comfortable.
After your teeth have been cleaned with the ultrasonic cleaner, your teeth will be hand scaled to check for any residual deposits and then polished.
CEREC TECHNOLOGY
CEREC restorations are made from powerful, computer-aided design and manufacturing technology called CAD/CAM. This CAD/CAM technology allows us to custom fabricate tooth-colored restorations, crowns, onlays, and veneers right here in our office— all in a single appointment.
In the first step of the process, we prepare and shape the tooth for restoration. The second step involves applying a reflective powder onto the prepared tooth. We then take a digital image of the tooth’s exact dimensions directly into the CEREC computer. After we carefully design the restoration, we select an appropriate material of the proper shade for your specific tooth. We place the porcelain block into the milling machine which, in just a few minutes, mills it into a custom-fitted restoration. This restoration is then glazed and fired in a special oven. We then try on the new restoration, bond or cement it in place, and polish it to a beautiful luster. Lastly, we’ll check your bite and make any final adjustments.
Using CEREC technology is healthier for you because it provides extremely accurate restorations made with durable materials that work with advanced dental adhesives. Because your new restorations are made out of tooth-colored materials, they are naturally beautiful. Call our office today to learn more about getting strong and beautiful restorations in just one appointment!
ITERO DIGITAL SCANNER
The Itero Digital Scanner is a tool that allows us to eliminate conventional tray impressions. This machine takes digital images of the mouth and converts them into a virtual model that can be manipulated in three dimensions. This allows us to communicate directly with the laboratory to make certain appliances. This is also used on all of our Invisalign cases which makes it very easy to capture records and fabricate clear aligners.
We only offer the best in technology at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics. Not only are we a chartless office, we also use: digital photography, Digital X-Rays, Intra-Oral cameras, UltraSonic Scalers, and CEREC CAD/CAM technology.