Like nearly every other industry, dentistry has dramatically changed (and benefited from) the increased use of technology. Digital dentistry, or the use of any dental technology or device that uses digital or computer-based components, has improved patient care in many ways. Not only have many new treatments been invented, but older treatments have also been streamlined or made safer, improving patient outcomes overall.
Understanding and keeping up with the innovative changes happening in dentistry can feel overwhelming. But being in the know can help keep patients feel informed about their diagnosis, treatment options, and overall oral health. Here are a few ways we use digital dentistry to improve your care:
Digital X-rays: Digital X-rays are a great improvement in dental radiography because they reduce exposure to radiation and are more comfortable for you. Capturing the images on a computer, digital X-ray images can also be magnified, which allows for improved diagnostic accuracy.
Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM): Dr. Fernandez has been using CAD/CAM technology in the office for almost 15 years to make crowns, bridges, and veneers. In fact, the use of this technology allows us to create crowns and bridges in one quick visit! Using a camera and a medical grade computer to take a digital picture of your prepared tooth, most of the work is then done while you wait in the chair. After creating a 3D virtual model of your tooth, a restoration piece is designed on screen and then sent electronically to the machine where it’s made onsite. The final step is bonding the crown or bridge to the surface of the damaged tooth to create a natural-looking restoration. The entire process generally takes 1½ - 2 hours.
Cone Beam CT Scan: We use technology to take a 3D image of a patient’s oral or maxillofacial anatomy to help us give an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. These scans are also used for implant procedures, which helps Dr. Fernandez precisely place the implant in the jawbone.
Intra-Oral Camera: An intra-oral camera is a great new tool in the digital dentistry world. This technology allows us to take several pictures of your teeth so that we can more clearly see tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth breakage. This technology also allows you to better see your teeth, which in turn helps you better understand the need for certain treatment options. This tool also helps us educate patients about the importance of oral hygiene. Win, win!
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re interested in learning more about the digital technology we use to make your dental experience as enjoyable and effective as possible, make an appointment with us today!