• 14 JAN 16
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    10 Ways To Use Technology For Better Oral Health

    The world of modern dentistry welcomes exciting new developments in technology for better patient comfort, treatment and convenience. Here are ten ways you can leverage new technology at home and at your dentist’s office to improve your oral health.

    Dental Implants10 Ways To Use Technology for Better Oral Health

    In the past, dentures and bridges were the only choices for patients suffering from tooth loss. With the advancement of technology, patients can now have dental implants that provide a stronger foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. They provide numerous advantages over dentures and bridges, such as improved appearance, speech, comfort and oral health. They also provide better durability, convenience and ease in eating.

    Veneers

    If you suffer from one or more of the following, veneers may be the solution for you:

    • Spaces between your teeth
    • Broken or chipped teeth
    • Discolored teeth
    • Misshapen teeth

    Veneers are a great alternative to otherwise painful dental procedures to improve the appearance of your smile. They’re customized from porcelain material and permanently bonded to your teeth. Veneers are a great aesthetic solution to your smile that may even help you avoid orthodontic treatment. A veneer application can be completed in just two visits to our office but can produce noticeable results.

    Air Abrasion

    Air abrasion is a procedure used to remove small areas of decay to prepare teeth for the placement of restorations or sealants. This procedure uses an air compression device to deliver tiny, pressurized particles of aluminum oxide onto the surface of a tooth structure to blast away decay. The fine stream of air and aluminum oxide equips dentists with a more accurate tool for quickly eliminating decay without impacting surrounding sections of the tooth. With air abrasion, discomfort is minimal and you’ll most likely not need anesthesia. This technology is a great alternative if you or a your loved one fears needles. Be aware that air abrasion cannot be used as an alternative for every procedure. You and your dentist can determine if it’s recommended for your particular case.

    Intraoral Cameras

    The intraoral camera is a wand-like device inserted into your mouth that projects a magnified image onto a screen. This allows both you and Dr. Evanson to see problem areas in the mouth, such as fractured teeth, receding gums or broken restorations so she can diagnose and recommend treatment.  

    Teeth WhiteningTeeth Whitening in Parker

    Advancements in technology have brought an array of options for teeth whitening. This treatment is ideal for people who have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings) and gums. Individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best. Check with Dr. Evanson before using a teeth whitening system to find out which one is best for you. She can tell you which whitening products have received the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which indicates that the product has met ADA guidelines for safety and effectiveness. Some systems and products available include:

    • Whitening toothpastes
    • Over-the-counter gels
    • Rinses
    • Strips
    • Trays
    • In-office whitening

    Digital X-rays

    Similar to traditional x-ray systems, digital radiography allows dentists to detect decay and bone loss and get help with root canals. Computerized technology uses a small sensor inside your mouth to take an x-ray and display it on a computer screen, eliminating film and darkroom processing and reducing your radiation exposure. Dentists have the flexibility to adjust the digital x-ray contrast or brightness settings to help in diagnosis.

    Dental Apps

    A wealth of dental knowledge, tips, videos and tracking tools are in the palm of your hand–literally. Developers have created various apps that you can download to your phone or tablet to help educate you on a broad range of dental topics and services.  

    Ultrasonic Cleaning

    To keep your teeth and gums healthy, it’s sometimes necessary to undergo dental scaling and root planing during a dental visit. Performed with a metal instrument known as a scaler, Dr.Evanson scrapes your teeth and under your gums to remove what your toothbrush missed. Ultrasonic cleaners replace the need to perform scaling by hand. The procedure can remove more dental tarter in less time without metal scraping on your teeth, making the procedure more comfortable.

    Ultrasonic Toothbrushes Ultrasonic Toothbrush

    According to the American Dental Association,  as long as you clean your teeth regularly and properly, you can combat plaque build-up and keep your gums healthy with a manual toothbrush. In today’s modern world, you also have the option of using an electric toothbrush that incorporates ultrasound technology. One such product is called EMMI-DENT. The vibrating brush cleans your enamel while the ultrasonic waves eliminate plaque, tartar and bacteria far below the gum line. These toothbrushes are not cheap, but some people really feel they see a difference when using them over other toothbrush options. To ensure your toothbrush has undergone rigorous quality control tests for cleaning effectiveness and safety, ask Dr. Evanson for a recommendation or look for manual or powered toothbrushes that have earned the ADA Seal of Approval.

     

    Water Flossing

    If you really dislikes flossing, you’re not alone. Flossing correctly takes some skill! More and more people are throwing away traditional floss and opting for water flossing instead. Recent studies show the Waterpik® Water Flosser is up to 50% more effective than traditional dental floss and 80% more effective than Sonicare® Air Floss for reducing gingivitis and improving gum health. The device shoots a jet-powered stream of water between your teeth to remove bacteria and impurities. Whether using a manual or powered toothbrush, adding a water flosser consistently reduces plaque and gingivitis. If you’re interested in water flossing, Dr. Evanson can help you choose which device is best for you.

    Call for a Consultation

    To take advantage of the strides dentistry has made with modern technology give our Parker office a call today at (720) 409-0008. We can answer any questions you may have and help you find what at-home products would work best to help you maintain your good oral health habits.

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