Decay Risk Assessment

The emerging biofilm science is changing how we look at decay as a disease model.  The new technologies in our office better assess, detect and diagnose signs of disease presence, progression and activity levels.

Cone-Beam 3-D

We have utilized digital x-ray technology in our office since 2002.  This new technology that we now have in our office allows us to better diagnose, treat, plan and perform advanced surgical procedures such as bone graphing and implant placement, and surgical extraction of impacted teeth.  It allows us to better evaluate root canal failures and better assess radiographic pathology that appears on the conventional 2-D radiographs.  This new technology should eliminate investigative surgeries and help us treat and plan many surgical procedures.  We are always concerned with the amount of radiation which anyone receives for any dental visit.  The Cone-Beam that we are utilizing in our office is a focused cone-beam, "15 times less radiation than a medical cone-beam; four times less radiation than the cone-beam utilized in dentistry in the past."

 

 

CEREC 3-D

CEREC 3-D is an advanced technology that is used to replace failing restorations, broken teeth and old silver fillings with beautiful full porcelain fillings or crowns in just one visit. CEREC uses CAD/CAM technology, incorporating a camera, computer and milling machine all in one instrument. Using a special camera, Dr. Allen takes a precise digital image of the prepared tooth, avoiding the traditional physical impression. This optical impression is transferred and displayed on a color computer monitor where he designs the restoration by 3-D CAD technology. Then CAM takes over and automatically creates the life-like porcelain restoration right in our office, while our patients enjoy a few minutes for business calls, emails or relaxation. Finally, the doctor bonds the restoration to the surface of the prepared tooth producing a “new” tooth that rejuvenates the smile instantly.