Dental Technology

A panorex is a piece of imaging machinery in that it is capable of identifying many issues and structures that a normal x-ray is not. It allows us to see any potential problems and make sure that everything is functioning as it should be. The panorex is capable of viewing specific types of structural problems, infections or asymmetry among many others.

There are two types of handpieces, air-driven and electric. Electric handpieces use a motor to spin the bur instead of air-driven handpieces. These handpieces allows the doctor to remove decay from your teeth.

As well, these electric handpieces offers precision to dentist's while performing implants or endodontic procedures.  

An intraoral camera is a diagnostic tool for viewing different angles in the mouth that we would not have been able to just a few years ago. The camera gives us the ability to view the entire mouth on a monitor, so that we can get a closer look at any potential issues or problems that may arise. In addition, the patient will have the ability to see for themselves the same images we are seeing. 

Digital X-rays allows the dentist to take an image of the tooth or teeth and put it into an imaging program. Within this imaging program, there are a number of tools that will allow the dentist to take a very close look at the teeth and surrounding structures. 

At South 40 Dental, we use x-rays to view things in your mouth that we cannot see during a visual examination. X-rays give us the ability to spot problems such as broken tooth roots, tooth decay, damage to the bones that support the teeth, problems below the gum line, cysts, and impacted teeth. Our team will ensure you are exposed to as little radiation as possible, which includes putting an apron on patients when taking x-rays. 

Cone Beam Computed Tomography or also referred to as CBCT is a part of the Sirona Orthophos SL system. The CBCT x-ray is used for a more detailed diagnosis of treatment planning for implants and wisdom teeth surgeries. 

During a CBCT scan, the machine rotates around the patient, capturing images using an X-ray beam. Afterwards, these 3D images are used to view the patient's mouth, jaw and neck. 

CEREC is an advanced dental technology that is utilized for the restoration of decayed, cracked, or chipped teeth. CEREC can create full crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers. The CEREC machine crafts a restoration in a matter of minutes. CEREC restorations are made of compressed porcelain. The most beneficial feature of receiving a CEREC restoration is that it is accomplished in one visit. 

How does the Sirona CEREC work?

The procedure for placement of a CEREC restoration is simple. The first step is to remove all decay from the tooth. The doctor will then shape the tooth in preparation to take a digital picture. The tooth is then sprayed with a very fine powder. This allows the digital camera to take an acceptable image. Once this image is captured, the tooth will appear on a computer screen in 3D. This will allow the doctor to design the restoration right in front of you. Once the design is completed, the CEREC will mill the restoration. This step takes approximately 15 minutes.  When the restoration is finished milling, the doctor will place the restoration. The entire process should take just over an hour.

The iTero Element Invisalign Scanner is used by our dentists to produce 3D digital impressions of your teeth. It also helps them plan out your Invisalign treatment. 

We use laser technology at our office to support varying treatment plans. Some of the laser technologies we currently use include:

• Diode Laser
• NdYAG laser
• Erbium-YAG Laser
• LLTT Laser