Here are just some of the ways cosmetic dentists are staying ahead of the times to keep their patients’ smiles looking camera-ready:
Replacing old-fashioned impressions
One major advance in technology includes dental scanners, which are used in place of old-fashioned impressions, says Dr. Rena Vakay, D.D.S., an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Patients love that dental scanners offer an efficient, clean, and comfortable way to take impressions for routine dental crowns, implants, and Invisalign. Patients no longer need to suffer a sticky mouthful of impression material; it can all be done digitally now!
New technology in X-rays
Like with impressions, there have also been major advances in X-ray technology. The high-tech radiographic machine called a cone beam, or CBCT, allows your dentist to create a 3D image of your teeth, mouth, jaw, neck, and ears, nose, and throat.
The CBCT allows dentists to check for a variety of issues, from sinus problems to airway (for sleep medicine) to abscessed teeth, and for accurate placement of implants. This is a fast and non-invasive way of answering several different clinical questions you might have.
Easy-peasy prepless veneers
In terms of improving the look of your smile, prepless veneers — an ultra-thin porcelain shell bonded to the front tooth surface — have finally come into their own and are accessible to more people than ever before. Prepless veneers cover stains, chips, and other flaws, and can often be placed in a single appointment. With proper care, these veneers can last many years, improving your self-confidence and giving you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Predictive visualization
Dr. Vakay says that one of the biggest trends cosmetic dentists are seeing is a need for “predictive visualization,” where a patient can take a selfie with their phone, and have before and after pictures emailed to them. It’s been wonderful for patients to be able to see the results before they even begin treatment.
Sparkling white is always in
The latest in tooth whitening is the KoR technique. It is a combination of both in-office and at-home treatment. KoR is known to be one of the best systems for whitening and it doesn’t cause sensitivity, like many other common whitening systems.
To learn more about whitening and other trends in improving your smile, be sure to visit yoursmilebecomesyou.com.
