Going to the dentist, especially to have a procedure done, is not the most enjoyable experience. However, modern dentistry is constantly improving the practices and techniques used during dental exams and procedures. The goal of modern dentistry is to make the experience more pleasant for the patient. Modern dentistry allows for more precision and mobility in dental tools and procedures.  Patients can rest assured knowing that dental practices are constantly being upgraded. Modern tools, practices, and other advances being made are aimed at making their experience at the dentist more enjoyable and productive.

High Tech Tools

The key to good dental health is prevention. If one can prevent cavities and problems with their teeth and gums, they can decrease their need to serious dental procedures in the future. To aid in this prevention, modern dentistry has revolutionized early cavity detection with the DIAGNOdent.  Using a laser and light energy, the DIAGNOdent can identify smaller amounts of tooth decay than can be seen by the naked eye and emit the results digitally to the dental staff for analysis. This high-tech detection device provides a 90% accuracy rate in early detection of cavities, allowing dentists to address issues before they become larger problems for their patient.

One of the most important technological advances in this age for dentistry has been the microscope. With the microscope, dental staff have exponentially increased visual range with their patients. They are able to do further analysis of samples otherwise unseen. They can also use this tool to their advantage when treating gum disease, placing crowns and implants, and provide fillings, because their precision is increased dramatically.

Air Abrasion

The most feared dental tool is most likely the dental drill. However, with advances in dental technology, a new tool has emerged as the alternative. Air abrasion is the new technique that can replace the loud, fear-inducing dental drill. By using a precise stream of air like a sandblaster, tooth decay can easily be sprayed away from healthy tooth gum tissues with little pain and suctioned away. It creates no heat, no sound, nor any vibrations or pressures, and does not require the use of anesthesia. This tool can truly revolutionize dental practices.

Lastly, the development of the Periotest has been groundbreaking in realm of dental implants. This best-selling wireless device measures the degree of implant mobility inside the bone, as well as natural bone health. Used during implantation or regular maintenance, this tool can potentially prevent dental implant failure because of premature implant loading. 

Modern Dentistry Procedures

Along with the new high-tech tools, modern dental procedures are becoming more popular with each passing day. First, with all the new technology available, some dental procedures are now able to be completed by computer-guided software. Potentially eliminating human error, this option for dental professionals and patients allows for more precision during dental procedures. 

With elective dental procedures increasing in popularity, the range of services available to patients are also increasing. From teeth whitening services to dental implants, these modern procedures can increase a patient’s self-confidence with a new and/or updated smile. Teeth whitening services range from in-office treatments to in-home treatments that a patient can purchase over the counter. No more days of living with dull and yellowing teeth! Also, if a patient is worried about missing or broken teeth, advances in dental crowns and implants have decreased recovery time, decreased invasiveness, and decreased worry and anxiety for those procedures.

In summary, modern dentistry has provided dentists with increased precision with high-tech tools and multiple new options for treatment. The patients benefit from these modernizations as well: less anxiety, less pain, and more available options. If you have any questions about how modern dentistry can help you with your oral health, contact the specialists at Guillot Family Dentistry.