Technologies at Our Dental Clinic
At our clinic in Waterloo, we use dental technology to gain a better understand of the oral health conditions our patients may be facing.
Using technology such as digital and panoramic X-rays, our dentists can get a closer look at what may be going on below the gum line where they can't see. This allows them to plan treatments and monitor the health of patient's teeth and oral structures.
Then, they are able to use these images to better explain what is going on, so the patient feels completely involved in their own treatment.
Technology can also be used to modernize the way classic treatments are done and speed up the process, such as using a digital scanner rather than taking putty impressions.
Overall, dental technology helps us achieve our goal of providing patients with care while making sure they are fully informed about their oral health.
Digital X-Rays
Digital X-rays utilize digital sensors instead of traditional X-ray film to produce highly detailed computer images of the teeth, gums, and other oral structures. This allows your dentist to examine parts of the mouth that are not visible to the naked eye. An added bonus of digital X-rays is that they expose you to less radiation than traditional X-rays.
Panoramic X-Rays
Panoramic X-rays allow your dentist to create one single image that includes your entire teeth, upper and lower jaws, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and nasal and sinus structures. These X-rays are often used when planning for treatments such as dentures, braces, extractions and implants.
CEREC® Same-Day Restorations
CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) is a system that allows for the fabrication and placement of ceramic dental restorations such as crowns, inlays and onlays in a single appointment.
Intraoral Scanners
Using an optical scanning wand, a dentist can take a digital image of the inside of a patient's mouth, which creates a digital 3D model of their oral structures. This device is used to capture accurate data to create replicas of the hard and soft tissues.
Cone Beam Cat Scan
CBCT is a special type of X-ray machine that generates 3D images of dental structures, soft tissues, nerve paths, and bone in the craniofacial region in a single scan. Images obtained with CBCT allow for more precise treatment planning and allow your dentist to analyze your airway for snoring and sleep apnea treatment.
Cephalometric Imaging
A cephalometric x-ray captures a side view of the head, showing the teeth, jaw, and nearby structures. It’s mainly used in dentistry and orthodontics for diagnosis and treatment planning. This imaging helps assess issues like jaw position, impacted teeth, TMJ problems, and airway concerns. It’s a safe and valuable tool for dental professionals.