Technology has revolutionized dentistry in a variety of ways, most importantly, the patient experience. If you dread going to the dentist because of a negative experience you had when you were younger, it's time to revisit dental care. You may be surprised to learn about the changes that technology has made in dentistry.
What is Advanced Dental Technology?
Technology refers to scientific advancements, most commonly in electronics. Dental technology is the application of scientific knowledge to the development of dental tools and techniques that streamline processes, increase comfort, and improve treatment outcomes.
Examples of Advanced Dental Technology
- Dental Lasers. A dental laser uses concentrated light beam energy to perform dental procedures as an alternative to scalpels and other cutting tools.
- CBCT Scanners. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a digital scanner that creates 3D images of the mouth and face.
- iTero Scanners. iTero scanners are another form of digital scanner that can be used to make images of the teeth and mouth for the purpose of creating dental prosthetics and oral appliances.
- Electronic Apex Locator. This tool is used to measure the exact length of the root canal inside a tooth for improved accuracy of root canal treatment.
- CAD/CAM Dentistry. Computer Aided Design or Computer Aided Manufacturing is used to plan treatment and create dental prosthetics and oral appliances.
- Ultra Quiet and Piezo Electric Handpieces. Advanced technology has led to the creation of ultra-quiet dental tools that reduce vibrations.
- Digital X-Rays. Digital X-Rays use a fraction of the radiation of traditional film X-Rays, making them safer while creating more accurate images.
- Prophy-Jet Polisher. The Prophy-Jet Polisher cleans the teeth using pressurized water and baking soda, eliminating the vibrations of traditional tooth polishing tools.
Benefits of Advanced Dental Technology
- Faster recovery times. Dental lasers naturally cauterize tissue to minimize bleeding and reduce inflammation for faster recovery.
- Reduced sensory impact. Advanced dental tools are quieter and gentler, reducing the overall sensory impact for improved patient comfort.
- Accurate diagnostics. Technology allows for more accurate and earlier diagnostics of oral health concerns.
- Improved treatment outcomes. With earlier diagnostics and great accuracy the overall outcome of dental treatment is improved.
- Deeper understanding of treatment. Advanced technology allows us to more effectively educate patients on their own oral health and treatment, fostering a deeper understanding and level of trust.
- Greater comfort. The overall comfort of patients is increased when advanced dental technology is applied to diagnostics and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Technology
Does technology increase the cost of dental services?
The use of technology does not make dental care more expensive. In many cases it reduces the cost of diagnostics and procedures by streamlining processes and improving accuracy of treatment.
Is dental technology safe?
Advanced dental technology is safer than ever. Many of the advancements in dental technology have been created for the purpose of improving safety and reducing the risk and impact on patients.
Experience The Difference at Meadows Dental Associates
If you’re in need of dental treatment, experience the difference that advanced dental technology can make at Meadows Dental Associates of Sarasota. Your time spent in the dental chair can be more pleasant and shorter than ever through our use of state of the art tools and equipment.