Why Technology Matters in Dentistry
Modern dental technology allows us to:
- See problems earlier and diagnose them more accurately
- Plan treatments with precision before we begin
- Reduce discomfort during procedures
- Complete treatments faster with better results
- Use less radiation for imaging
- Create restorations that fit better and last longer
Technology doesn’t replace clinical skill and experience – it enhances what skilled dentists can accomplish. Dr. Tatum and Dr. Austin combine decades of training with advanced tools to deliver the best possible care.
Advanced Imaging Technology
3D CT Scanner (PreXion)
Our cone beam 3D CT scanner provides detailed, three-dimensional views of your teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and nerves. Unlike traditional 2D x-rays that show flat images, 3D imaging reveals the complete picture from every angle.
We use 3D CT imaging for:
- Dental implants – Precise placement planning to avoid nerves and maximize bone support
- Endodontics – Evaluating complex root canal anatomy and hidden canals
- Oral surgery – Assessing wisdom teeth position and planning safe extractions
- TMD/TMJ – Examining jaw joint structure and alignment
- Sleep apnea – Evaluating airway anatomy
- Orthodontics – Understanding tooth position and bone structure
- Restorative work – Planning crowns, bridges, and full mouth cases
- Preventive care – Detecting problems traditional x-rays might miss
3D imaging uses significantly less radiation than medical CT scans while providing far more information than traditional dental x-rays.
Digital X-Rays (NewTom DCiS WL)
Our digital x-ray system captures clear images instantly with up to 90% less radiation than traditional film x-rays. Digital images can be enhanced, enlarged, and analyzed immediately, helping us spot problems early.
Benefits of digital x-rays:
- Dramatically reduced radiation exposure
- Instant results – no waiting for film to develop
- Clearer images that can be enhanced for better diagnosis
- Easy to share with specialists when needed
- Environmentally friendly – no chemical processing
We use digital x-rays for all patients, including children, across all types of dental care from routine checkups to complex treatment planning.
Digital Dentistry Technology
Digital Impressions (Medit i700)
Our digital impression scanner eliminates uncomfortable, messy impression trays filled with goopy material. Instead, we use a small wand to capture precise 3D images of your teeth in minutes.
What we use digital impressions for:
- Crowns and bridges
- Dental implant restorations
- Veneers and cosmetic work
- Dentures and partial dentures
- Orthodontic planning
- Any case requiring accurate tooth models
Benefits for you:
- No gagging on impression trays
- More accurate than traditional impressions
- Faster process
- You can see the digital model on screen
- Better-fitting final restorations
Digital Shade Matching (Medit i700)
Perfect color matching is essential for natural-looking restorations. Our digital shade matching technology captures the exact color of your natural teeth, ensuring crowns, veneers, and fillings blend seamlessly.
We use digital shade matching for:
- Cosmetic dentistry (veneers, bonding)
- Dental implant restorations
- Any crown or bridge work
The result? Restorations that look like they’ve always been part of your smile, not obvious dental work.
Digital Smile Design (Medit i700)
Digital smile design lets you preview what your new smile will look like before we begin treatment. We create a digital mock-up based on your facial features and treatment plan, so you can see and approve the result ahead of time.
Used for:
- Cosmetic smile makeovers
- Veneer cases
- Full mouth restorations
- Any case where appearance is important
This technology improves communication between you and us. You’ll know exactly what to expect, and we can adjust the plan based on your feedback before treatment begins.
3D Printing Technology
We use 3D printing in-house to create temporary crowns, study models, and custom bite splints. This technology allows us to provide same-day temporaries and precise custom appliances for your treatment.
Applications:
- Temporary crowns for immediate function and aesthetics
- Study models for treatment planning
- Custom bite splints for TMD and bruxism management
Comfort and Treatment Technology
Air Abrasion System (PrepStart)
Air abrasion cleans the surfaces of the prepared enamel and dentin to significantly improve bond strength, which improves the longevity of all bonded restorations and helps eliminate sensitivity.
Benefits:
- Less noise and vibration than drilling
- Often requires less anesthesia
- Preserves more natural tooth structure
- Effective for small to moderate cavities
- Reduces anxiety for drill-phobic patients
We use air abrasion across many types of dentistry including cosmetic work, fillings, preventive care, and restorative procedures.
Ultrasonic Scalers (Cavitron)
Our ultrasonic scalers make cleanings more comfortable and effective. They use gentle vibrations and water to remove plaque and tartar, requiring less manual scraping.
Benefits:
- More comfortable than traditional scaling
- More effective at removing stubborn deposits
- Reaches areas that are difficult to clean manually
- Reduces treatment time
- Gentler on sensitive teeth and gums
We use ultrasonic scalers for routine cleanings, deep cleanings, periodontal therapy, and implant maintenance.
The Benefits You Experience
All of this technology translates into real advantages for you:
- Precision: More accurate diagnosis and treatment planning means better outcomes and fewer surprises.
- Comfort: Digital impressions, air abrasion, and modern equipment make procedures more comfortable with less anxiety.
- Reduced Radiation: Digital x-rays and 3D CT use significantly less radiation than older technology.
- Faster Treatment: Digital workflows and advanced tools often reduce the time you spend in the chair.
- Better Outcomes: More precise planning and execution lead to restorations that fit better, look better, and last longer.
- Peace of Mind: Seeing your treatment plan digitally helps you understand what we’re doing and feel confident in your decisions.
Technology Combined with Experience
Advanced technology is only valuable when used by skilled, experienced clinicians. Dr. Tatum and Dr. Austin have invested years in learning to use these tools effectively. They understand not just how to operate the equipment, but when and why to use each technology for optimal results.
We believe in purposeful innovation – choosing proven methods that genuinely serve our patients, not chasing every new gadget that comes along. Everything in our office has earned its place by improving the care we provide.
Technology has transformed what’s possible in dentistry. Procedures that were once uncomfortable or imprecise are now predictable and pleasant. Treatments that required multiple visits can often be completed faster. And diagnosis that relied on guesswork now benefits from detailed imaging and digital planning.
If you’d like to experience the difference that modern dental technology makes, call (806) 358-7646 . We’re here to provide precise, comfortable care using the best tools available.
