“Dental technology” is a broad term describing the devices and processes dentists use to perform dental treatments. At Smile Now Dental Studio, dental technology is essential to general dentistry because it provides patients with more accurate diagnoses and efficient therapies. As a part of modern dental offices, dental technology is ever-changing and growing. Innovations in dental technology and products have revolutionized how dentists treat patients and help them maintain optimal oral health.
Here are some of the latest dental technologies we use at Smile Now Dental Studio:
Cone Beam 3D Imaging
With CBCT scanning, your dentist can get a three-dimensional image of your bite and jaw. This view enables our dentist to plan dental implant procedures and other oral surgeries with extreme precision. Our dentist can also get important information like bone density, nerve location, and more in this type of scan. The digital images obtained after this type of scan are easily stored on a computer or in digital cloud archives, which can be accessed at any time. These images can also be sent to other specialists, such as oral surgeons or orthodontists.
Digital X-Rays
A digital X-ray, also known as digital radiography, is a way to capture images of the oral cavity using an electronic sensor instead of traditional photographic film. This eliminates the use of toxic chemicals to develop the film and lets the dentist view the image on a computer in a few seconds. We can instantly share the image with our patients and discuss our findings. In addition, the images can be stored electronically indefinitely.
Intraoral Camera
An intraoral camera is a small camera that fits comfortably in a patient’s mouth. The camera sends a live video feed to a computer monitor, where the dentist can see what the patient sees. The dentist can then explain what is happening to the patient. An intraoral camera helps patients understand their conditions and the treatment process better. Intraoral cameras are also beneficial when explaining treatment options to patients. Since the images can be seen on the monitor, there is no need for a printed model or drawing to explain the problem. This can be especially helpful for patients who are uneasy about seeing their dental problems on paper. Instead, they can see the image immediately on the screen. Additionally, the images can be saved as a permanent record for the patient’s records.
iTero® Digital Scanner
An intra-oral scan is a digital impression system that eliminates needing a physical impression. Instead of traditional putty impressions, the scanner takes a 3-D image of your teeth and gums. The iTero® system captures a replica of the patient’s teeth and bites that can be used immediately for restorative or orthodontic treatment planning. Using a handheld wand, the dentist moves the wand through the mouth to take a very accurate and detailed picture of the patient’s teeth, gums, and jawline.
The scanner eliminates common frustrations associated with putty impressions, such as gagging, discomfort, and inaccurate impressions. Because the scanning is digital, a patient can see the virtual impression of their smile in real time on a computer monitor before the procedure is completed.
Dental technology has two primary benefits: improved precision and increased patient comfort. For the best dental care tailored to your unique needs, visit Smile Now Dental Studio at 1282 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104, or call (626) 797-3451.
