Digital Technology
Today’s technology drastically improves the patient’s treatment experience and the outcomes that result from that treatment. Thanks to advanced imaging tools and innovative computer software, we can provide interventions in a way that is both predictable and effective.
Our practice relies on technology to both diagnose oral diseases and plan for and provide treatment. These tools are integrated throughout many facets of our practice, so it is highly likely that you will encounter at least one of them while you are under our care.
Furthermore, we incorporate newly developed and effective technology into our practice. We work diligently to make sure that we have the latest information on dental technology advances so that we can continue to optimize your care.
To learn more about the use of technology in our approach to dental care, call our office and speak to one of our knowledgeable staff members or ask any questions that you may have at your next appointment.
Why You Should Pay Attention to How Technology Is Incorporated Into Your Dental Care
The use of technology in a dental practice isn’t merely a nice perk designed to impress patients with the latest and greatest instruments. It is integral to the practice of dentistry in the 21st century and an indicator of the dentist’s attitude toward providing care.
If a dentist is relying on outdated technology, what other developments in dentistry have passed them by? When you see the most advanced technology available being used in a dental practice, you can rest assured that your dentist has the latest knowledge of dental treatments, as well.
When considering their options for a dental care provider, patients are well-served by exploring how those practices make use of dental technology throughout the entire spectrum of care.
The Use of Technology in Screening for Oral Diseases
X-rays have been standardized in dental care for decades for your dentist to examine hidden surfaces of the teeth to identify areas of decay while they are still small. There are two primary categories of x-rays used in screening and diagnostics:
Intraoral
Typically taken annually, these interior views of the teeth can illustrate areas of decay that might otherwise go unseen. They can also show problems with the roots of the teeth as well as the crowns.
Extraoral
These x-rays offer a broader perspective beyond the teeth alone, capturing images of the entire jaw and sometimes portions of the skull. Patients will usually have a panoramic x-ray taken every five years to monitor the overall structure of the smile.
These x-rays are invaluable in helping us identify problems in very early stages when they can be most readily treated.
Our practice has transitioned to the use of digital radiographs, which is good for both our patients and our staff. For patients, digital x-rays reduce the amount of exposure to radiation. They also can be more easily shared with specialists when outside referrals are needed.
Additionally, there are no films to develop, meaning that our staff does not have to be exposed to potentially toxic chemicals. Everyone benefits from digital x-rays.
The Value of Technology in Treatment Planning and Interventions
At our practice, technology touches on every aspect of the treatment process, from planning to the procedure. Digital treatment planning draws on specialized images, sometimes ones that are three-dimensional to determine the precise location for the intervention.
We primarily use two tools to generate these three-dimensional images:
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)
Compiles multiple two-dimensional images into a three-dimensional representation of the targeted area for the intervention.
Intraoral Scanner
Devices that capture digital impressions for greater convenience and less mess.
With the images generated by these tools, we can use our state-of-the-art 3D printers to create surgical guides that allow us to prepare for the procedure with more predictability, greatly reducing the likelihood that we’ll encounter surprises when it’s time to deliver the intervention.
Our 3D printers can also be used to create customized restorations, such as those supported by dental implants.
Our Commitment to Using Technology to Deliver the Best Possible Outcomes
Of course, because Dr. Ghaly uses these types of technology daily, he can develop expertise in their application to dental treatment. But our commitment to this area goes well beyond the software and hardware that is currently available.
We are dedicated to providing patients with the most innovative available technology that meets their treatment needs. To stay updated on all of the developments in this area, Dr. Ghaly regularly attends continuing education courses that highlight these new tools and their use.
Additionally, we work closely with our dental equipment provider partners to make sure that we are using the most current versions of the equipment and software they provide. These experts are a valuable resource in keeping us informed of the many technological advances of modern dentistry.
Patients should know that when they choose our practice, they are getting the most advanced treatment that modern dentistry has to offer.