Dentistry has come a long way, and the future of it is looking bright.
As a dentist in St. George, Utah, we are interested in the future of our field. With technology constantly changing and improving, we are excited for the potential for better care. We decided to share with you the next generation of dental technology.
CAD/CAM
Welcome to the 3D printing of teeth. Dental restoration (the process of putting in crowns, veneers, fixed bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances) is not a perfect science. CAD/CAM technology can make it much better. A image scan is taken of the rotten and broken teeth. The image is a digital impression that is read by a computer that then operates the milling machine that carves out the replacement material from ceramic or resin. The stains and glazes are then put on the teeth to give them a natural appearance. After some adjustment, the teeth are then cemented or bonded into the patient’s mouth. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it can be applied in ways that couldn’t be done before.
Dental Lasers
As WebMD shows, lasers can fill a wide capacity of roles in dentistry:
– Tooth decay: Lasers can help in removing tooth decay, and hardening fillings for use
– Gum disease: The lasers can remove bacteria during root canals as well as reshape the gums
– Teeth whitening: Lasers and a peroxide bleach solution can actually be more effective in whitening teeth
The FDA has approved the use of lasers in dental work, but the American Dental Association has not accepted any laser system as safe. However, the ADA has stated it is cautiously optimistic about the future use of lasers in dentistry.
Dental Cone-beam Computed Tomography
This neat technology rotates around the patient’s head and uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to capture data on the patient’s mouth structure. A computer pieces the data together to produce a 3-D image. Not only is it low cost, but it allows general dentists to take part in placing implants, and there is a decreased amount of radiation involved. Future versions of the technology may have the capacity to recommend implant positions and look for asymmetries and disease to alert the dentist about.
Now is certainly the time to be a dentist. Who knows what the future will be bring. As a trusted family dentist in St. George, Utah, we will continue to utilize the newest and safest technology that will make your experience with us more enjoyable. Check out the current services we can offer you!
