Advanced Technology
i-CAT®
While CT (computed tomography) imaging has been used in the medical field for over 30 years, it is becoming the new diagnostic tool of choice for orthodontic analysis, diagnosis and treatment planning due to the latest advancements in diagnostic technology such as the revolutionary i-CAT Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System. This three-dimensional CT technology can provide a quicker full scan of the head than traditional two-dimensional imaging, allowing orthodontists a better visualization of the hard and soft tissues of the craniofacial structures from several perspectives. In addition to the advantages of traditional CT scans, the i-CAT Cone Beam releases up to 90% less radiation than traditional X-ray machines, enhancing your safety while providing crisp, clear images for more efficient diagnostic analysis and treatment. We feel our modern, cutting-edge techniques ensure you are receiving the quality care you deserve.
The i-CAT Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System can immediately produce three-dimensional images in under one minute. This in-office, easy-to-use system provides your orthodontist a comprehensive view of all oral and maxillofacial structures, dramatically increasing the efficiency with which your orthodontist is able diagnose your condition and plan for your treatment.
i-CAT technology is used for:
- TMJ assessment
- Surgical planning
- Assessment of cleft lip and palates
- Assessment of the alveolar bone
- Impacted tooth position
- Facial analysis
- Tongue size and posture
- Airway assessment
- Placement of dental implants
i-Tero®
Our office uses the most state-of-the-art technology available to help create the smile you want, which is why we use the iTero digital impression system, by Align Technology. Our digital impression system replaces the uncomfortable, unpleasant-tasting, messy and sometimes inaccurate traditional putty impressions. No bulky trays or sticky putty needed!
Using a digital scanner, we will take three-dimensional (3-D) digital images, or impressions, of your teeth and bite. These impressions will help us formulate a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific orthodontic needs and desires. We can also use them to visually show you your treatment options and help us keep you up-to-date on your treatment progress.
After your specific treatment plan has been chosen, the digital impressions allow us to create customized bracket trays that we use to place your brackets onto your teeth, all at one time, with increased efficiency and overall effectiveness.
Some benefits of iTero digital impressions over traditional putty impressions include:
- Accuracy: They capture the exact contours of your teeth.
- Efficiency: They require less time in the treatment chair.
- Comfort: Taking the digital images is less invasive. No putty is used, and patients are more at ease without fearing they will gag on the impression putty.
- Customization: They provide a digital plan and allow for trays that are tailored to meet the individual needs and desires of each patient.
- Visualization: They provide each patient with a definite picture of what their teeth will look like before, during and after orthodontic treatment.
- Innovation: They use the most advanced 3-D video technologies.
Digital X-Rays
In order to provide our patients with the highest quality of orthodontic services, we use digital radiographs, or X-rays, in our office. These radiographs provide us with invaluable information about your oral and dental health.
While radiographic equipment does produce radiation (and depends on that radiation to function properly), modern advances in technology are continually reducing the amount of radiation that is produced. In fact, studies have shown that the amount of radiation produced by these machines is not significantly higher than other “normal” sources of radiation that we are exposed to on perhaps a daily basis, such as televisions and airplanes.
X-rays work on a simple principle: the X-rays are stimulated and sent through the mouth. When these rays pass through, they are absorbed more by the bones in your mouth than the gums and other soft tissues, creating a picture of how the teeth inside your mouth are positioned, as well as any potential areas of weakness or decay in your teeth.
While this radiation is very low, it is still recommended that pregnant women avoid any unnecessary X-rays. However, pregnant women are also more vulnerable to gum disease, so x-rays may be recommended, in which case, proper precautions should be taken, such as using a lead apron and thyroid collar.
SomnoMed® Flex™
The SomnoDent Flex appliance treats mild, moderate and severe obstructive Sleep Apnea by moving the lower jaw slightly forward, tightening the muscles of the upper airway thus preventing vibrations as air passes over the upper airway. Each appliance is custom-made, so that the jaw is only moved as much as is necessary in each individual case. SomnoDent is not bulky and is comfortable and easy to wear. The appliance is made up of two separate pieces so that speaking and drinking remain possible and tongue space is not limited.