Cutting-Edge Health Technologies
iTero Digital Scanner
The iTero features a complete set of tools that help us create an exceptional 3D image, including vivid realistic color and real-time scan feedback. This intra-oral scanner allows us to take a digital imprint of patients’ teeth and oral structures (eliminating the need for messy impressions.) This technology is used to fabricate crowns, bridges, night-guards, splints, as well as the planning and sequencing of Invisalign treatment. The iTero represents the future of dentistry in the digital age, as the accuracy of capturing dental anatomy is greatly improved.
iTero Digital Scanner
Digital Radiographs
Sometimes, a tooth may look fine to the naked eye; however, decay, impacted teeth, bone loss and abscesses are not always clinically visible. Digital radiography is the latest technology used to take dental xrays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to traditional dental x-rays. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.
X-rays are also useful to determine the eruption status of your child’s permanent teeth. They are instrumental in guiding an orthodontic regimen for your child, should that be necessary.
At our office, we recommend bitewing radiographs to be taken every 1-2 years, and a panographic radiograph every 3-5 years. We do have a homeopathic remedy available to those who would like one, following the exposure of dental x-rays. Our remedy is given to us by Dr. Kim Lane MD who practices homeopathy, and is a 30C strength “X-ray” remedy.
The Cone Beam CT (CBCT) Scanner represents a significant advance in imaging capabilities for all disciplines of dentistry. This new-generation scanner uses computed tomography technology to provide a complete three-dimensional view of the maxilla, mandible, teeth, and supporting structures with relatively high resolution and low radiation exposure to the patient. At our office, we use the Cone Beam CT to evaluate for possible infections around the roots of teeth, possible areas of infection (cavitations) around extracted tooth sites, and to determine if a patient would be an ideal candidate for ceramic implants.
Cone Beam CT
Bitewing X-ray
Panographic X-ray
Intra-oral camera
Intra-oral cameras are used to show a patient the inside of their mouth, as an alternative to using a mirror. These images captured by the camera allow patients to see a clear picture of their teeth, aiding the dentist in consulting with them on various treatment options
Intra-oral camera
Lasers
A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy. When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction. Depending on the strength of the energy emitted, the laser either provides a healing effect, or can be used to remove or shape tissue.
Sometimes it’s necessary for the dentist to remove or reshape areas of infected or overgrown tissue. Diode lasers are helpful as they allow for precision and controlled bleeding. The Diode laser is also used in certain hygiene procedures, as it is a noninvasive method of killing bacteria and reducing inflammation in the gums. CO2 lasers (LightScalpel) are used for frenectomies, as they allow for a more comfortable procedure and fast healing time.
Diode Laser
Light Scalpel CO2 laser
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over the nose to help patients relax. Nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas, is one option we can offer to help make patients more comfortable during certain procedures. It is not intended to put patients to sleep, and the nitrous oxide leaves the body at the end of treatment, so patients may come and go from appointments unaccompanied. Nitrous oxide has been used in medicine and dentistry for over 150 years, and is safe for both children and adults.
Nitrous Oxide
Ozone
Ozone is a chemical compound consisting of 3 atoms of oxygen. A medical-grade ozone generator is used to convert O2 into O3, (oxygen into ozone.) The resulting substance has the chemical composition of 0.25 parts of ozone to 99.75 parts of oxygen. At this low concentration, ozone is an incredibly powerful oxidizer, and effectively kills bacteria, fungus, viruses, and parasites with virtually no toxic side effects.
At our office, we utilize ozonated water in our dental water units, we insufflate teeth with ozone gas prior to placing dental restorations, we inject ozone gas during surgical procedures to help with healing, and we have ozonated oils for sale in the form of ozonated coconut oil and jojoba oil. Ozone has shown to be very effective in treating tooth decay, periodontal disease, gum/dental abscesses, mouth sores, sensitivity, extraction sites, and bone infections.
Red light therapy
Red light therapy (or low-level laser light therapy) is a treatment that uses low-wavelength red light to aid in wound treatment. By acting on the “power plant” in your body’s cells called mitochondria, red light therapy helps to increase collagen, relieve joint pain, relax muscles, and improve the skin. At Natural Smiles, we use red light therapy to help with tooth pain, extraction/wound healing, TMJ joint discomfort, and anxiety release. Our office is selling these simple hand-held devices (made by Usuie) so our patients can benefit from this remarkable therapy in their own homes.
