Services

While dentists are trained to detect cavities in a variety of ways, poking and prodding–even x-rays–don’t catch everything.

Diagnosing cavities in the back of the mouth using traditional methods is difficult; studies even show that 50% of cavities are left undetected in these areas. However, today’s technologies enable the location of these cavities to put a stop to further decay. DIAGNOdent is one of the more popular technologies, utilizing lasers for detection. Others utilize LED fluorescence, or function as a special attachment to intraoral cameras for a closer look. All of these are completely safe, and they enhance the dentist’s ability to find cavities (also called caries). Better accuracy for better treatment plans–it’s devices like these that help us detect and treat cavities before they become a real problem.

Feel free to ask us about the technologies we use for diagnosis.

X-rays are a focused beam of x-ray particles passed through bone which produce an image on special film, showing the structure through which it passed. This provides the familiar black and white images doctors and dentists use to diagnose problems and disease. Without an x-ray of the whole tooth and supporting bone and gum tissues, there would be no way to detect infection or pathology that requires attention.

In our office we use digital radiography which allows us to take x-rays using up to 90% less radiation than conventional film x-rays. Using this technology, we are able to take an x-ray of your mouth by using a small sensor which records the image of your teeth and sends it to a computer. The result is a highly detailed image of your mouth that can easily be enhanced to better diagnose dental concerns and determine the very best treatment for each case.

Our office utilizes electronic claims processing. This means that rather than sending your dental claim through the mail, it is sent electronically to your insurance company with the click of the button. By filing your claim electronically, information is submitted more efficiently and with fewer errors. This benefits our patients because the turn around time on claims is faster and fewer claims are returned or denied. We are happy to submit your dental claims to your insurance company on your behalf.

We use small cameras about the size of a pen, called intraoral cameras, to help clearly see the condition of your teeth and gums.

With this advanced technology we can zoom in on small diseased areas, cracks, chips and worn metal fillings with extreme precision. The full-color images taken with the intraoral camera are sent to a computer screen so we can clearly see and diagnose dental problems much earlier than with traditional dental technology. Because images are displayed on our screens, patients will also be able to see areas being worked on and are able to gain a better understanding of dental procedures being performed.

Our office is a completely digital (paperless) dental office. This means all x-rays and charting are made and recorded with the aid of the computer. This technology allows us to maintain your dental records electronically, and cuts down the unnecessary paperwork used with traditional paper charting. Traditional paper charting is difficult to keep standardized from doctor to hygienist to assistant. Even handwriting differences and coding make the charts look different. The computer eliminates this problem by using consistent charting methods that are accurate and precise, making it easy to read your dental chart and see up-to-date information. Digital charting standardizes the charting process so it is clear, easy to understand, and enables us to provide on the most accurate and precise care to our patients. When needed, this method also allows us to quickly and securely share information with your other health care providers.

You deserve to be in the loop when it comes to your dental care. There are a variety of computer programs available to help patients better understand conditions, procedures and treatment options. Our office invests in patient education software because we want you to feel confident in every dental decision you make. This investment helps us clearly communicate–and it helps you learn more.

Popular programs include GURU and DentalMaster, among many others. If you have any questions about the program we use, we’re happy to point you to the website. If you have any further questions about your oral health and procedures, don’t hesitate to ask us.

We have a genuine concern for your overall health and well-being. It’s because of this that we invest in state-of-the-art oral cancer screening technology to ensure your health for life.

Did you know that in the United States, one person dies every hour from oral cancer? Oral cancer has a cure rate of more than 80 percent—if it is detected and treated early. The mortality rates are high because diagnoses come too late. Very few patients are properly screened by their dentists. At our practice, we perform an oral cancer screening with every exam. We utilize an advanced cancer screening technology so that we can detect problems early on. Five minutes could save your health. It could save your life.

Symptoms include:

• Unexplained bleeding
• Numbness, loss of feeling, or pain in sections of the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Ear pain
• Persistent sore throat
• Development of white, red or speckled patches in the mouth
• Swelling, thickening, lumps, bumps, rough patches and growths

Oral cancer typically affects:

• Front 2/3 of the tongue
• Lining of the cheeks and lips
• Floor of mouth under the tongue
• Roof of the mouth
• Gums
• Small area behind the wisdom teeth
• Minor salivary glands

Although these areas are visible to the doctor during examinations, we need a more thorough look to be able to detect the beginnings of abnormalities.

Oral cancer is typically treated first with surgery and also with the help of oncologists. Each case varies. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please call our office to schedule a screening and consultation.

We hope to catch things before they become a real problem, and we need your help! Be sure to come in for every 6-month checkup for preventive care. Especially in the case of oral cancer, prevention is your best option.

The dentist performs most of her dental procedures while wearing a pair of funny looking glasses called surgical telescopes. These powerful glasses have magnifiers on them, allowing the dentist to see fine details that would go unnoticed to the naked eye.