Dental Technology – Charlottesville, VA
Advanced Innovation for a Better Dental Experience
With all the technology available today, why would you want to go to a dental office that’s still performing dentistry the old-fashioned way? Dr. Lippard always stays up-to-date through his continuing education coursework, and then he brings the best back home. Our practice in Charlottesville is equipped with some of the industry’s most advanced devices to make the patient experience more comfortable, more productive, and more effective.
Intraoral Camera
In the past, if a dentist found something concerning in someone’s mouth, they could only describe it as best as they could to explain the issue to the patient. After all, it’s very difficult to see inside your own mouth, which is why today we use intraoral cameras to show you precisely what we see. That way, you can make informed decisions and feel confident about your treatment options.
Digital X-Rays
Although the concept of X-rays has stayed the same, X-ray technology has come a long way over the years. Instead of developing the images with harsh, environment-harming chemicals, we are able to take the X-rays and view them on our screens immediately. This leads to faster diagnosis and more efficient dental visits. Our X-rays also emit significantly less radiation, giving you more peace of mind about your health and safety.
Digital Impression System
If you’ve ever had impressions taken of your teeth before, you likely know what the traditional putty impressions feel like. This process and the material itself can be unpleasant to say the least, and the impressions can turn out to have some mistakes. Luckily, we use Planmeca digital impressions. With a quick, easy scan, we can collect accurate data that we’ll then use to custom design and fabricate your restorations or oral appliances.
Soft Tissue Laser
Whether you have gum disease or a “gummy” smile, some problems have more to do with the soft gum tissue than the teeth. Traditionally, we would have to use a scalpel to make adjustments and treat gums, and then put in sutures. But with our Waterlase soft tissue laser, we can take care of these problems through less invasive measures. The laser cauterizes as it cuts the tissue, which means that the patient feels very little pain and bleeding throughout the process.
The Wand
Once the local anesthetic is administered, patients are comfortable through any procedure. However, many patients dislike the uncomfortable injections and the appearance of the intimidating needle. The Wand is different; it doesn’t look like a traditional needle. The Wand is a subtle, gentle way to give patients anesthetic without causing any anxiety or discomfort. In fact, some patients don’t feel anything at all!
Cavity Detection System
Wouldn’t you prefer to catch cavities sooner rather than later? Of course! Early detection helps you avoid potentially more painful symptoms and more costly treatment down the road. Our Dexis CarieVue cavity detection system helps us identify areas where decay has just started to develop. We are then able to intervene and treat the tooth before the problem worsens. As a result, you keep more of your natural tooth structure and save more money in the long run.