Great dental care requires more than dedicated and skilled doctors and staff. Great dental care also requires the best tools available. This is just some of the dental technology we use to provide you with exceptional dental care. Call our office today (248-651-8787) to schedule your appointment.
Digital Radiography (X-rays) | Panographic Radiography (X-rays) |
Teeth Whitening / Zoom 2
Digital Radiography (X-rays)
What is a digital x-ray?
In traditional x-rays (radiographs), x-rays sent through your mouth are captured on film. The film is then developed, which takes time and is environmentally unfriendly.
Digital radiography works like your digital camera. Instead of capturing x-rays on film, digital radiography captures x-rays on a grid of sensors. Computer software transforms the information from these sensors into an image on a computer monitor where the doctor can immediately see the results. And like your digital camera or photo editing software, the doctor can "zoom in" on areas of concern for closer examination or adjust the contrast and brightness to see the image more clearly. Their diagnosis of your dental health is faster and more accurate than ever before, thanks to digital x-rays.
Reduced x-ray exposure and increased convenience
Another advantage of digital radiography is the reduced amount of radiation you receive during your x-rays. Digital x-rays are one-quarter to one-third the radiation exposure of traditional x-rays. Dr Solverson has always made sure that your exposure to x-rays falls well within the safe exposure limits of the American Dental Association. By investing in digital x-ray equipment, Dr. Solverson is demonstrating his continued commitment to your overall health.
Another advantage of storing your x-rays digitally is that your records are now easier to locate when needed and easier to share with other dental professionals should you need specialized dental services. This can save you valuable time if your dental need is of an urgent nature.
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Panograhphic Radiography (X-rays)
Just as a panoramic photograph allows you to see a broad view of a large area, such as the Grand Canyon, a panoramic radiograph (x-ray) allows our doctors to see all of your upper and lower teeth and parts of your jaw in a single image. Seeing all of your teeth at one time lets our doctors make a more accurate assessment of your overall dental health.
A common use of a panoramic x-ray is to assess teeth development in a child or teenager. This is especially true when wisdom teeth (third molars) are erupting. Wisdom teeth can cause crowding or become impacted because the teeth don’t have enough room to grow. Using panoramic x-rays, our doctors can follow the progress of third molars before they erupt and recommend a course of treatment (such as braces) if the molars are not developing properly.
For adults, panoramic x-rays are also useful in detecting cysts, abscesses, and other infections of the gums, (see Periodontics).
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Teeth Whitening / ZOOM 2
Why do Teeth Yellow?
There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine, etc. During the formation of teeth, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics, or excessive fluoride can also cause tooth discoloration. Teeth whitening is the process of removing these staining substances and restoring your teeth to their original color. Unfortunately, there is no whitening process for teeth that are discolored through aging.
The ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening System
More people whiten their teeth than you might imagine. A bright, sparkling smile can make a big difference for everyone. The ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before to whiten your teeth. ZOOM 2 takes half the time (60 minutes) of the original ZOOM! systems and can be used by almost anyone.
However, teeth whitening might not be as effective on some patients as it is for others. We can determine if you are a viable candidate for ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening through a thorough oral exam, including a teeth shade assessment.
The ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening Procedure
ZOOM 2 teeth whitening treatments usually take about 60 minutes from start to finish. During the teeth whitening procedure, patients may comfortably watch television or listen to music. We also offer blankets, pillows, back massagers, etc. for your added comfort.
The teeth whitening begins with a preparation period followed by 45 minutes of whitening. The whitening process is broken down into three 15-minutes applications of the ZOOM 2 teeth whitener. Pre- and post-treatment preparations and activities round the total treatment time up to a little more than 60 minutes.
As the whitener (hydrogen peroxide gel) is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The ZOOM 2 teeth whitening light (a mercury metal halide light) emits a light in the range of 350-400nm helps the gel penetrate the surface of the tooth to achieve better whitening.
The ZOOM 2 light unit has an infrared filter. This filter helps to minimize the amount of heat generated at the surface of the teeth during the whitening treatment.
The doctor will complete your whitening with the application of a 1.1% neutral sodium fluoride gel. You will be given additional whitener and instructions so you can continue the bleaching process at home.
Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider teeth whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any teeth whitening product, ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.
How long will the ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening last?
By following some simple post teeth whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. To keep your teeth looking their best, we recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and occasional touch-ups with ZOOM 2 take-home gel.
Are there any side effects to ZOOM 2 Teeth Whitening?
Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after completion of the teeth whitening treatment.
Call our office today (248-651-8787) to see if you are a candidate for teeth whitening.
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