15 Nov 2018 New Dental Technology
Technology is changing our world. It’s interesting to think that the Internet has only existed for about 25 years. None of us today can imagine having to wait more than a few seconds for an answer to a question. None of us can imagine not being constantly connected. But only 25 years ago, the technology to email and to search the internet was only just beginning.
Think of other advancements—digital photography, microwaves, and laptop computers—our lives have been made better by technology. How has technology affected or improved dentistry? This article explore dental advancements that can benefit you every time you go to the dentist. Improvements in technology help dentists like Dr. Greaves provide the best dental services they can.
Dental Advancements
- Digital X-rays. Digital X-rays are an amazing invention. Dentists can take an x-ray and it is immediately viewable on a computer screen. Dentists can zoom in on an area to see it better to make a diagnosis. If dentists need to communicate or consult, digital images are easily emailed. Digital X-rays also expose patients to 90% less radiation than traditional X-rays. This technology is a must for any dental office.
- Dental Lasers. Lasers are used for a number of different purposes in dental work. Lasers can be used to decrease sensitivity, to help dentists to fill cavities, and to help make small incisions like when an abscess needs to be drained. They also can be used in a number of cosmetic procedures. For example, dentists can laser the gum lines of the front teeth. The teeth will look taller and more beautiful when this procedure is done. One specific type of laser called a diode can detect decay in the tiny grooves of your teeth. It will make decay glow, so it’s easier to detect. This sounds a lot nicer than the explorer tool that dentists usually use to poke at your teeth in order to find decay.
- Bluetooth toothbrushes. We’ve all seen electric toothbrushes and know that these can help people brush more effectively. Bluetooth toothbrushes have a sensor on them that interacts with an app on your smartphone. The sensor can give you data about the way you brush and your mouth. The sensor can show you spots you’ve missed and can tell you if you’re brushing too hard.
- VELscope. VELscope is a certain type of light that when shined in your mouth, can help detect cancer and other gum diseases.
- Better bonding and filling agents. These agents look more natural that other materials used to fill cavities or fix chipped teeth than in the past.
- 3D printing. The application of this technology in dentistry is just getting going. One day soon, we may be able to take a picture of a tooth and print a crown out in office. For now, 3D printers are able to make diagnostic models and crown/bridge models.
- Invisalign braces. These braces aren’t really braces at all. They are a series of clear, invisible, removable trays that cover your teeth. You wear them all day but can take them out to eat and to clean your teeth. Straightening teeth has never been easier.
The future is exciting and only bigger and better innovations yet await us. Is you have lived in Utah and specifically the Salt Lake City area for a while then you are well aware of how fast things can change. This will only help us give our loyal patients and new patients the best care possible.