Dentistry is constantly changing, with dentists using new technologies to ensure better patient outcomes or to put patients who might be anxious at ease during different procedures. If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, be prepared for the following technologies, techniques and procedures that your dentist might use.
High-tech Digital X-rays
Traditional x-rays are slow and produce a lot of radiation which is never good, especially for those who need lots of them. Digital x-rays are replacing these pieces of equipment, and they have several benefits including being faster, more efficient and producing less radiation.
A phosphor plate or electronic sensor is placed in the patient’s mouth. Once it captures the image, it is relayed to a computer where the dentist can view it. This process is much faster because there is no film to develop as would happen with a traditional x-ray.
These digital images can also be stored on a server so a doctor can have your whole dental history in one place.
Invisalign
The most common option for straightening teeth used to be braces. These worked well but were bulky and not suited for those who would feel self-conscious when wearing them. Invisalign are clear braces that straighten the teeth but are almost invisible. They are also increasingly popular, with many dentists offering Invisalign in Birmingham as well as elsewhere round the globe. The main reason for this is that they can be worn by almost anyone and are a great alternative for people who would otherwise be self conscious about wearing permanent braces for a few years.
Every Invisalign process is different because people have different dental needs. They are also easy to take out and clean, and they do not require a restricted diet as braces do. They also do a great job in less time and with little hassle.
To get started with Invisalign, talk to a private Northwick dentist who will fit them for you, ensure they are comfortable, and answer any questions you might have.
Lasers
Lasers are incredibly useful at minimising patient discomfort during certain procedures. They are used for filling cavities, as they make finding them easier; reducing tooth sensitivity; removing tumours; and when whitening teeth. In addition to being fast and painless, they also eliminate bacteria during these different procedures, thereby helping prevent complications in the future.
Intravenous Sedation and Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide has been used for a long time in medicine to help calm anxious patients during procedures. While other compounds can be used for this, nitrous oxide relaxes patients while ensuring they are lucid enough to interact with their dentist.
Patients who have dental anxiety and phobia might require sedation during dental procedures. Intravenous (IV) sedation essentially puts the patient out, so they are unaware of what is going on during a procedure. Sedation is also recommended for very painful procedures such as tooth extraction.
Thinner Veneers
Veneers are thin shells and mouldings used to cover the front of the teeth. They are used to cover cracks, discolouration, or other issues that can make the patient feel as though their smile is attractive. Thinner veneers allow for minimal reshaping of the tooth. This means there is less tooth surface loss during the procedure.
Patients benefit from the various advancements that have taken place in dentistry because procedures are now safer and painless. They can also expect better outcomes due to the use of sophisticated technology such as digital x-rays.