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Dental Technology
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Digital X-rays
X-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. Detecting issues with x-rays before they become problematic can save you money in the long run. Early detection can help prevent the need for more extensive, expensive procedures or surgeries. X-rays are primarily used to detect:
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Internal tooth decay
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Cysts (fluid filled sacks at the base of your teeth)
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Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous
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Impacted teeth
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Teeth that are still coming in |
At Pahls Family Dentistry, we use digital x-rays, which have several advantages over traditional film based x-rays. Digital x-rays allow us to take x-rays with 1/5 of the radiation that you would receive from traditional dental x-rays. The worry of exposure to excess radiation is eliminated.
Large on-screen x-rays make patient communication more effective. The immediate observation of the images on the screen allows us to discuss your dental health quickly and accurately.
Digital radiography has greatly enhanced the practice of dentistry. It allows the patient and the doctor to see images of the teeth in higher resolution on a large format for easier detection of problems, all while decreasing the radiation exposure to the patient. The process we use further defines the radiograph, resulting in clinically meaningful images that are sharp, detailed and rich in contrast.
Images are available instantly after exposure, eliminating the wait and effort spent developing and mounting x-rays. If an image needs to be retaken, it can be done immediately. Digital format also allows us to send and receive your images electronically, allowing for a faster consultation with your dentist.
 Intra-Oral Camera
X-rays give us a clear view of what we can't see such as decay between the teeth. An intraoral camera gives the patient a view of what the dentist sees. An intraoral camera is a device that is about the size of a toothbrush. Broken fillings, fractured teeth, decay or any other dental problem can be viewed so that we can discuss with you any treatment needed. With a clear understanding of your dental needs we can decide together what the best treatment is for you.
 UltraSonic Scalers
We use ultrasonic scalers for most adult dental cleanings. These devices use ultrasonic vibrations to help break down the plaque and calculus on the teeth that cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. The ultrasonic cleaners create microscopic bubbles that implode on the surface of the tooth, killing microbes and removing plaque and tartar in the process. Our instruments use a thin tip to better navigate in the periodontal pockets to help maintain optimal gingival health.
The procedure uses water and/or an antimicrobial liquid called chlorhexadine. It can remove tartar buildup in hard-to-reach areas, with no damage to the tooth enamel. Manual scaling often uses pressure for cleaning, while the vibration produced by the scaling tip of an ultrasonic scaler is barely perceptible. This makes ultrasonic cleaning suitable to those with sensitive teeth. The cleaning process is faster than manual scaling, making your visit more comfortable.
After your teeth have been cleaned with the ultrasonic cleaner, your teeth will be hand scaled to check for any residual deposits and then polished.
 CEREC Same-Day Crowns
We now have a CEREC machine that does one visit crowns. No more impressions, temporaries, and multiple visits.
When a tooth has had a significant amount of work done, or if it has decayed to the point that its structural integrity has been compromised, having a crown placed is often a viable option for restoration. A traditional crown is a custom-made cap, made in a dental laboratory, that fits over your existing tooth. We now offer same-day crowns which, as the name implies, are made in our office and fitted on your tooth all in one visit! Same-day crowns are made possible thanks to computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).
Read more about Same Day and Traditional Crowns
 3D Cone Beam
3D imaging allows us to better understand the anatomy of your mouth, which is essential before we perform any type of corrective procedure. By using this state-of-the-art technology, our surgeons will be better prepared to accurately diagnose potential issues and develop the best possible treatment program for you.
How is 3D Imaging Different From a Traditional X-ray?
A typical dental x-ray will just focus on the teeth, and for each image you’ll need one exposure. Therefore, to get the same picture as a 3D image, you’d need many exposures. 3D imaging shows considerably more than a simple 2D x-ray, as this newer technology will provide more accurate and complete visual information from every angle. Additionally, the data can be easily shared and duplicated without the worry of film getting lost.
How is Cone Beam Technology Different From Other CT Scanners?
Unlike the traditional, spiral CT scanner, cone beam technology to provides crystal-clear and precise digital images. This technology allows us a greater range in our ability to diagnose problems, and it can reduce the need for multiple office visits to find out exactly what is going on in your mouth.
Best of all, the system allows us to properly diagnose your oral and facial impairment while exposing you to minimal radiation levels. Our 3D scanner will allow us to select the perfect scanning area or field of view, helping to limit your exposure to radiation since we will be focusing directly on the area of concern.
How Does It Work?
Our 3D imaging system is essentially a digital x-ray that is mounted to a rotating arm. Similar to a digital camera, the system uses digital technology rather than traditional film to record your images. It’s referred to as cone beam technology because the scanner will project x-rays in the form of a cone-shaped beam.
When it is time for your scan, you’ll sit in a chair, and the scanner will move in a circle around your head. After one revolution, the scanner will have gathered all of the necessary data. You don’t need to make any special preparations before your scan.
Next, your technician can bring up any view that they need on their computer, whether this is a 2D, 3D, or panoramic view of your whole mouth. Your doctor will be able to view the images from any angle and use different magnifications to zoom in on problem areas, specifically those with the bones, airways, tissues, nerves and teeth. This information is essential for evaluating or planning proper treatment.
What Happens After the Scan?
After the scan, the information will be used to develop a proper treatment plan for your oral or facial issue. We’ll use this technology to easily and quickly share images of the problem area with your referring dentist or physician. This will allow your doctors to work together on your care to deliver a positive treatment experience. |
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Pahls Family Dentistry
346 N. Central St.
Coquille, OR. 97423 (541) 396-2242 |
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