Dental Technology Terms

Digital X-rays

Digital radiography in dentistry is a form of X-ray imaging, where digital X-ray sensors are used instead of traditional photographic film. Advantages include time efficiency through bypassing chemical processing and the ability to digitally transfer and enhance images.

Laser Dentistry

Lasers are carried through fiber optic cables and exit through the tips of the fibers, which are so thin their diameter is measured in millionths of a meter. This precision results in far less damage to surrounding tissue compared to electrosurgery or other methods. Additionally, the use of electrosurgical instruments is not recommended for certain patients, including those with pacemakers or when the instrument is used next to metal restorations. Diode lasers are minimally invasive and can precisely target the diseased area.

Rotary Endodontics

Rotary endodontics are a safe and effective way to prepare a root canal procedure even in cases of difficult root canal anatomy where the length, width or curvature of the canal presents a challenge for the dental professional. This technologically-advanced method provides a much more comfortable experience for the patient, with results which are equal or superior to traditional manual treatments.

Intraoral Camera

Through the use of high-quality digital optics and high-speed computer processing, the dentist can conduct a thorough, detailed dental examination of hard-to-see areas in the mouth and can share these images with the patient to improve patient communication and understanding of the patient’s dental condition.

Panoramic X-Ray

This low-dose imaging technology captures the patient’s entire mouth in only one image through a quick, comfortable and noninvasive procedure. By capturing all of the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures, the x-ray can help the dentist identify a host of tooth, gum and jaw disorders that may otherwise be more time-consuming or uncomfortable to diagnose.

For professional dental care, contact the San Fernando Valley offices of Sterling Smile Dental Care for a dental appointment at 818-885-7117.