Advanced Technology

CONSERVATIVE DENTISTRY WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY!

DIGITAL IMAGING

Dr. Markham chooses carefully which and when radiographs are taken. Radiographs enable us to detect cavities in between your teeth, determine bone level, and analyze the health of your bone. We can also examine the roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors, as well as assess damage when trauma occurs.

Dental radiographs are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. Exposure time for dental radiographs is extremely minimal. Dr. Markham utilizes Digital Imaging Technologies within the office. The radiation used for digital images is as much as 90% less than that necessary to take a conventional X-ray. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that there are some diseases and conditions which cannot be detected without the help of x-rays. Decay, tumors, bone loss, and abscess are some of the things that you can find and treat early on thanks to digital x-rays.

Digital imaging allows us to store patient images, and enables us to quickly and easily transfer them to specialists or insurance companies.

Drill-Less Dentistry

What is Air Abrasion?

Air abrasion is a relatively new technique in dentistry that uses a special device to spray away the decay in the tooth to prepare it for a filling. Tiny particles are sprayed onto the tooth using compressed air. The particles might consist of an aluminum oxide or baking soda mixture that are strong enough to loosen the plaque decay and damage on the tooth. As the particles are suctioned away, they take the decay from the tooth with them, leaving a clean hole for filling.

Uses for Air Abrasion

Air abrasion may be recommended for the following situations:

• Removing small, superficial cavities from the teeth

• Preparing a cavity for a white composite filling

• Eliminating stains or spots from the surface of the teeth

• Repairing damage like cracks, chips or worn teeth

• Fixing broken bridges and crowns

Benefits of Air Abrasion

There are a number of reasons why air abrasion might be the preferred choice for some patients:• No need for needles or anesthetic used in most cases

• No drill sounds during the procedure to cause anxiety for the patient

• Allows us to leave more of the healthy tooth intact

• No heat, pressure or vibrations, creating greater comfort for the patient

• Lower risk of damaging the tooth during treatment

• Multiple areas can be addressed in a single treatment session

Air abrasion is often the treatment of choice for anxious adults and children that may be more fearful of dental procedures.