2017 has been an incredible year for technological advances in dentistry. Over the past year, we have seen new technology emerging almost every day. It has a huge number of uses, from helping dentists spot the early signs of oral cancer to helping patients achieve a glistening smile. The trend of technological advances in dentistry comes down to one thing: comfort. Not only have these advances made dentistry more efficient, but more natural-looking for the patient too. No longer is the dentist a place to fear, it is a place to feel in control of your oral health, and entire body, as Finchley dentist patients explain. Discover the top five recent technological advances in dentistry below.
- VELscope
VELscope is a special type of light used to detect abnormalities in the mouth. This new form of advanced technology is effectivity used to identify early forms of disease, and even cancer. Dentists across the world can now enjoy the ease of using the VELscope in their own dental practices. Not only is the examination quick, it is also comfortable, so patients can relax knowing it is painless. Better yet, VELscope can also be used as a follow up to oral cancer treatment, to ensure normal cell activity.
- Digital X-Rays
While digital x-rays are becoming more the norm, film x-rays slowly dwindle out of fashion. Digital x-rays are a great technological advancement for several reasons, not only do they take much less time than traditional film x-rays, but they also emit up to 70% less radiation than traditional film x-rays. Better yet, they have better quality viewing capabilities than ever before, so spotting an issue before it’s too late has never been so straightforward.
- Invisalign
We’ve seen the endless online, TV and train platform advertisements, but do you actually know what Invisalign is? Otherwise known as a clear-aligner treatment, Invisalign is a type of brace used to straighten patient’s teeth. Compared to the traditional metal-block brace, Invisalign is almost invisible. They also provide much more comfort since they can be removed from the teeth at any time, for any reason. But, Invisalign comes at a cost, averaging between £2,500 and £6,000, depending on the brace manufacturer. However, if only minor tooth movement is required, prices may start from £1,500.
- Laser Dentistry
Laser dentistry concerns the lasers used to improve efficiency and eliminate discomfort in a series of dental procedures, including reducing tooth sensitivity, removing tumors, teeth whitening and filling cavities. Not only is laser dentistry a quick and painless procedure, it also has the ability to eliminate bacteria during the procedure to avoid any further problems or complications the patients may experience at a later date.
- Dental Implants
Dental implants are effectively screw-replacements for the root portion of a missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants are used to restore healthy smiles once again, by replacing the missing tooth while still giving the patient the look and feel of a natural tooth. As well as improving appearance, dental implants can also improve comfort, speech and make eating easier, since dental implants function exactly like your own teeth, so you can eat your favourite foods with confidence.
