What Are Some Recent Advancements in Dental Treatment?

Updated: May 1, 2020

Technological advances in medical techniques are positively changing the way dental procedures are performed. Always at the forefront of advancement, dentists strive to meet the health needs of the patients using the least invasive methods and lowest associated recovery times. Thanks to more effective materials, digital imaging, and laser dentistry, patients are experiencing better results with less pain and a faster return to normal behavior.

Traditional braces have been around for a long time. Until recent years, patients with a desire for discretion only had the option to request clear ceramic braces, though these were still visible and used the same technology as traditional braces. For patients who qualify, there are now more choices for patients who want less visible braces. Invisible braces and tray systems, like Invisalign and Clear Correct have gained popularity due to the discretion the systems offer, combined with the effectiveness of the products.

When it comes to dental advancements, laser dentistry should be at the top of everyone’s list. Many procedures that previously involved traditional surgical techniques can now be completed using a laser. Lasers can be used to find and fill cavities and complete surgery for periodontal disease. Many dentists use laser dentistry because they believe it has many advantages over traditional surgery.

X-ray machinery is continuously evolving, but moving to digital forms of x-rays has been a game-changer for dental practices. Digital x-rays use only a fraction of the radiation when compared to traditional x-rays, so patients have reduced radiation exposure. Digital versions are also faster to complete and allow dentists the ability to manipulate final images by zooming in on areas of concern for a closer look. Comparing digital x-rays to previous versions is simple when using the computer. An intraoral camera is another piece of new technology that allows dentists to gain images of areas of the patient’s mouth that were previously difficult to access.

Patients who had teeth filled or bonded twenty or even ten years ago would be surprised to see the differences in the materials dentists use today. Modern materials are easier to apply, are stronger, and last longer than previous versions. A type of resin is now used for bonding teeth, and as a result, the bonds are stronger and more closely resemble the natural color of the teeth. Modern fillings that match tooth color and are more subtle replace the silver fillings of days past. Even the texture of bonding and filling materials has changed to mimic the shiny look of a natural tooth.

The loss of permanent teeth is always a concern for dental patients, and in the past, there were limited options for replacements. Most patients received partials or bridges for a few missing teeth or full dentures if needed for an entire replacement. Dental implants have revolutionized the way teeth are replaced. An implant topped with a crown functions very similarly to a natural tooth and is a permanent solution to the loss of a tooth. For patients who have crooked, chipped, discolored, or otherwise unattractive teeth, veneers are a good choice for replacement of the front surface. In the past, veneers were thicker, and a large portion of the natural teeth had to be removed before they could be fitted. Modern veneers are thinner and allow the patient to retain more of the natural teeth.

Professional teeth whitening procedures have always been the gold standard for teeth bleaching, but the newest technologies make the process easier and more successful than ever. Instead of multiple visits with gradual whitening, many patients can receive full results in just one visit. Bleaching materials are now activated with special lights and have been improved to cause less sensitivity and stronger results. Professional whitening also reduces the chance of damage to the enamel.

To see the latest advancements in dental treatments in action, contact us at All Smiles Dentistry to ask any questions about available procedures or to schedule an appointment with a member of the team. The staff at All Smiles Dentistry strives to make your dental visit a relaxing and informative one.

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