Why Dental Technology Matters for Patient Care
Since I began practicing in 1996, I’ve seen technology completely revolutionize the field of dentistry. If you’re wondering why dental technology matters to our patients, you’ve come to the right place. It’s a topic that I’m especially passionate about educating my patients on. Let’s take a look at the types of tech we use at Smile Montreal in Westmount, QC. Though it affects virtually every service we provide, we’ll then focus on its applications in cosmetic dentistry and most importantly, what dental technology means for you.
CAD/CAM Software and Milling System
Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing refers to computer software and a machine that allows us to create dental crowns, veneers, and more right here in our office.
In order to leverage this technology, we’ll first take digital impressions and upload them to the computer. This allows us to have complete control over the planning phase of your treatment.
Once we’re completely satisfied with the design of your restoration, the information is transmitted to our milling machine. Using a solid block of porcelain, the machine will craft a highly customized restoration – while you wait. Then we can place your restoration for beautiful results in just one appointment.
Laser Dentistry
Traditionally, dental surgeries are performed using very sharp blades called scalpels. Specialized dental lasers offer a great alternative for a number of reasons. Patients can generally expect:
- Less discomfort
- More precision
- Lower risk of complications
- Less bleeding
We’ll discuss some ways you might benefit from laser dentistry in more detail below.
3D Imaging Technology
Traditional and digital X-rays produce 2-dimensional images. In many cases, this provides a sufficient amount of information. But in cases like dental implant surgery, we take treatment planning to the next level with our i-CAT 3D imaging system. This allows for an unparalleled level of accuracy. Similar to dental lasers, patients can benefit from a decreased risk of complications, among other advantages.
Intraoral Cameras
Intraoral cameras allow for better visibility from a dentist or hygienist’s perspective. We also use these tiny cameras to display images on a monitor and educate patients on the state of their oral health and treatment options. We find this results in better patient compliance and a commitment to good oral hygiene at home.
Dental Technology & Cosmetic Dentistry
So what do all of these dental technologies really mean for patients at our Westmount practice? Some ways we incorporate these techniques into our work include:
- Same-Day Veneers: Veneers are one of the most effective and versatile ways to enhance your smile. Say you have a fast-approaching event that you want to look your best for – just a few days away, to be exact. In contrast to the weeks-long wait for porcelain veneers from a lab, we can design, mill, and place custom veneers in a matter of hours.
- Laser Gum Contouring: The appearance and proportion of our gums are just as important as our teeth. If you have an uneven or very low gumline, we can gently remove small amounts of tissue using a dental laser instead of a scalpel.
- Dental Implant Placement: Though implants are technically considered a restorative procedure, filling gaps in your smile can have tremendous cosmetic benefits. Using 3D imaging, we can map out and execute implant placement for a truly optimal outcome.
Reach Out to Learn More
We’re excited to continue staying abreast of emerging technologies in the field. When you partner with our Westmount team at Smile Montreal, you can continue to enjoy the benefits as well. Get started today by contacting our office with any questions or requesting a consultation.