Technology in Dentistry

We’ve all seen technology grow in our lives over the last few years. I’d like to introduce you to just a few of the advances in technology in dentistry over the last few years that have improved diagnosis, treatment, and most importantly, patient comfort and in general overall dental health.

With the integration of the computer into the treatment room, digital imaging has become popular and convenient. X-rays all used to be on a cardboard applicator with the film attached and in your mouth. Now with digital radiography, we can take an image of your teeth and have it on screen within seconds. The imaging software here allows us to zoom, adjust contrast, and even measure parts of a tooth, all with the click of a mouse or touch on the touch-screen. Not only is this more convenient for the patient, but the exposure time to radiation is about 1/10 of what it used to be (about 12.5 hundredths of a second). We now have an x-ray unit that can take an image of the entire face all at once, digitally of course. Any of these digital pictures can be shown to the patient using the monitor right over the patient’s head.

Cavities and gum surgery used to be something that every one dreads. Now with the advent of fiber-optics and erbium chromium lasers, most of these procedures can be done in ½ the time with little to no discomfort at all. The laser Dr. Levine has here is an erbium chromium laser. That means this laser focuses on obliterating water and those tissues with a higher concentration of water. Gum contouring procedures can be done with little to no bleeding at all. In many instances local anesthetic isn’t even necessary as you can’t even feel the laser as it is re-contouring!

Lasers are also used to help the dentist and hygienist detect cavities when they are small. We have a tool called a diagnodent. This is a class 2 (less powerful) laser that reads the density of a tooth. Once calibrated, we are able to tell if the darker grooves or discolorations on your teeth are from stain or if they’re actually decalcified areas meaning a small cavity forming. The laser makes a beeping sound and the higher the sound, the less dense that part of the tooth. If you haven’t had it done, ask at your next appointment to have a demonstration.

We also have other things to make your visit more comfortable such as the abilities to play movies, podcasts or music through the overhead monitor to headphones that you are able to wear. This allows many people who don’t like dental noises to have a more relaxing visit.

These are some of the most recent and convenient innovations to dentistry. There is much, much more on the horizon. Just like other industries, technology is pushed by those at the forefront of the industry. The entire team here at Levine Dental is committed to providing the best care to our patients with the latest technology available. For more information or to ask questions about the technology available log on to the website at LevineDental.com