Advances in technology are drastically changing the perception of the dentistry field.
These advancements allow us to deliver exceptional dentistry. We can use them to diagnose, prevent, and treat conditions and pathology earlier and more effectively.
Our McDowell Dental & Aesthetics team takes pride in the equipment we have incorporated to serve our patients better. We believe that the best dentists are those who stay up-to-date and informed of the ever-changing technology in dentistry.
Some of the technologies Dr. Ashley McDowell and her staff may incorporate into your treatment include:
Digital X-Rays
With digital X-rays, images of your teeth are available within seconds. They’re also available at up to 90% reduction in radiation exposure compared to traditional X-rays.
The Dexis digital x-ray system gives us the tools to detect and diagnose decay and pathology early. Benefits for our patients also include:
- Less waiting time
- Shorter appointments
- A more comfortable procedure
This system enables our patients to be involved in co-diagnosis. It also helps them to understand their treatment better.
GALILEOS® 3D CT Scanner
The GALILEOS® 3D Dental Conebeam Scanner delivers superior-quality imaging. It does so with one of the lowest possible doses of radiation.
This technology enables Dr. McDowell to analyze the position and orientation of critical structures, including nerves, roots, sinuses, the nose, and the airway. This careful analysis helps her to make a diagnosis as accurately as possible.
The GALILEOS® is also an essential tool when planning for implants. Knowing where critical structures are located and the quality and density of bone make implant placement fast and predictable.
GALILEOS® 3D Dental Conebeam features:
- Lowest radiation possible
- Quick, easy, and comfortable scanning of the mouth, face, and jaw
- Immediate virtual diagnosis and treatment planning in one visit
- More security and less time during surgery
- Easy sharing of images with referring doctors
CEREC Primemill & Prime Scan - CAD/CAM
CEREC is a unique CAD/CAM system that allows individualized all-ceramic restorations in one visit. CEREC enables Dr. McDowell to deliver all-ceramic, highly aesthetic restorations for anterior and posterior teeth. This includes inlays, onlays, crowns, veneers, and bridges.
This technology means there is only one visit, no temporaries, and no impressions needed! We use the latest CEREC machines, which offer powder-free scanning and precise 3D images in natural color. CEREC enables Dr. McDowell to deliver minimally invasive, conservative dentistry with long-lasting, beautiful restorations.
CEREC Benefits:
- One visit
- No impressions
- No temporaries
- Metal-free
- Highly aesthetic
- Long-lasting
CEREC Primemill
The CEREC Primemill is a state-of-the-art milling machine. It enables the fabrication of dental restorations with unparalleled speed and precision.
CEREC Primemill is designed to work hand-in-hand with digital impressions obtained from CEREC Prime Scan. It creates a seamless process from scanning to milling.
Primemill's robust and precise milling capabilities allow for the creation of various dental restorations from a range of materials, including:
- Crowns
- Veneers
- Inlays
- Onlays
The machine's intuitive interface and automated functions make it user-friendly. It reduces the learning curve for dental professionals. With CEREC Primemill, same-day dentistry becomes a reality, enhancing patient satisfaction and practice efficiency.
CEREC Prime Scan
CEREC Prime Scan is a cutting-edge intraoral scanner. It has redefined digital impressions in dentistry.
Unlike traditional impression methods that can be uncomfortable and time-consuming, CEREC Prime Scan provides a quick and precise digital impression of the patient's teeth and gums. This technology uses advanced optics and scanning algorithms to capture highly detailed 3D images in a matter of seconds.
The high-resolution images generated by CEREC Prime Scan facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Dentists can visualize the oral cavity in minute detail. This allows for precise restorations and better patient communication.
The digital impressions can also be seamlessly integrated with CAD/CAM systems. This streamlines the workflow from diagnosis to treatment.
Intraoral Cameras
Dr. McDowell and her hygienists both utilize digital intraoral cameras to provide instant images of your teeth and gums.
Our DEXCam cameras give us high-quality imaging with live video display and capture and freeze capabilities. The images are then shared on the patient viewing computer monitor to discuss and explain possible treatments.
Intraoral cameras allow us to show our patients what we see in the mouth to help them better understand their dental condition. This camera is an invaluable tool in detecting situations that may become troublesome.
Soft Tissues – Diode Lasers
Soft tissue/diode lasers can be used to treat gum disease, during root canal therapy, and for aesthetic gum recontouring.
The targeted light beam vaporizes the intended tissue while leaving the surrounding areas intact. The beam also sterilizes the area and coagulates the blood vessels. This reduces the chance of post-operative infection and bleeding.
Diode lasers can be used to treat dental problems such as:
- Canker sores, herpetic and aphthous ulcers
- Gum disease
- Gum reshaping
- Laser root canal therapy
- Laser implant recovery
- Frenectomies
- Tongue-tied
- Fibroma removal
Fotona XLASE
At McDowell Dental & Aesthetics, we use the latest Fotona 1064nm XLASE laser system.
Fotona XLASE represents a significant leap in laser dentistry. It offers a versatile and minimally invasive solution for various dental procedures. This laser system combines the power of Er and Nd lasers. It provides dual-wavelength capabilities for both hard and soft tissue treatments.
The Fotona XLASE is renowned for its precision and effectiveness in procedures such as:
- Cavity preparation
- Periodontal therapy
- Root canal treatment
- Soft tissue surgery
The laser selectively targets and removes diseased tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This results in less postoperative discomfort and faster healing times for patients.
Furthermore, the laser’s antimicrobial properties reduce the risk of infection. They also promote better long-term outcomes.
TENS Unit
The J5 Myomonitor TENS unit delivers controlled electrical stimulation. It provides muscle relaxation, increased blood circulation, and increased range of motion. This device treats patients with TMJ/TMD dysfunction with neuromuscular dentistry.
To alleviate symptoms associated with TMD, neuromuscular dentists relax the muscles of the head and neck. This helps with finding the optimal physiologic rest position of the lower jaw. The TENS unit is the only way to temporarily break your jaw's strong connection and muscle memory to bring your teeth together.
We use the TENS unit to fabricate an initial Phase I mandibular orthotic to evaluate whether or not NMD treatment will help.
BioPAK
BioPAK is an advanced diagnostic tool. It is used to evaluate and treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and other craniofacial pain conditions.
This technology employs electromyography (EMG) and computerized mandibular scanning (CMS). It provides comprehensive data on muscle activity and jaw movement.
By analyzing the functional dynamics of the masticatory system, BioPAK helps Dr. McDowell to diagnose TMJ disorders accurately and develop personalized treatment plans.
The data obtained from BioPAK can also aid in the design of occlusal appliances. It ensures optimal fit and function.
Isolite® Systems
Controlling the oral environment is essential for predictable outcomes, regardless of the clinical application. A compromised operative field negatively impacts operator efficiency and treatment results.
Complete oral control with the Isolite® allows us to maximize the efficacy of technique-sensitive dental materials. This, in turn, helps us deliver high-quality dental treatment and long-lasting restorations.
Isolite® protects the patient’s airway from any objects being aspirated or inhaled. It also provides extra suction and aerosol elimination when removing old mercury/amalgam fillings.
WatchPAT®️ ONE
Home Sleep Study Monitors such as the WatchPAT®️ ONE are screening tools for sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. They help us follow up and test patients currently being treated with a sleep apnea appliance.
WatchPAT®️ ONE has transformed the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in dental patients. This wearable device provides a convenient and accurate alternative to traditional in-lab sleep studies, which can be cumbersome and expensive.
The WatchPAT®️ ONE uses innovative Peripheral Arterial Tone (PAT) technology to monitor various physiological parameters during sleep, including:
- Heart rate
- Oxygen saturation
- Respiratory patterns
Post-monitoring, the data is analyzed to provide a detailed report on the presence and severity of sleep apnea. Dr. McDowell can use this information to identify patients at risk of OSA. She can then collaborate with sleep specialists to develop appropriate treatment strategies, such as oral appliance therapy.
