CEREC Dental Technology
CEREC® is an acronym for a system used in dentistry known as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic. This chairside system uses CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) to fabricate dental restorations. For the most part, CEREC technology is used to design dental crowns, inlays and onlays, permanent bridges veneers dental implants, dentures and some orthodontic appliances.
Our in-office CAD/CAM technology utilizes the unique software to create digital designs for; custom restorations, based on scans of the patient’s mouth. The CEREC milling unit uses these scans to fabricate custom ceramic restorations. Our doctor selects the solid ceramic block based on the shade to match your neighboring teeth. The ceramic restoration material is available in a variety of shades to match virtually any patients’ teeth.
We are proud of our CEREC® machine, as this tool has revolutionized the patient experience.
CBCT 3D X-Rays
Cone Beam Computed Tomography, or CBCT, is a specialized digital imaging device used in advanced dental offices. The CBCT uses a rotating cone-shaped x-ray beam to create a 3D view of the inner anatomy of the head and face. The insight from 3D images assists in diagnosing diseases and planning treatment, such as dental implant placement.
Most often, CBCT scans are used to further evaluate conditions diagnosed by your dentist. The sharp high-quality images unparalleled insight for our dentist. Our dentists can visualize bone structure, tooth position, soft tissues, and nerve pathways in detail.
Digital X-Rays
Digital radiograph, better known as digital x-ray, provides a better experience for patients. The radiation that a patient is subjected to from tradition x-rays is a concern for patients. Comparatively, our digital x-rays are approximately an 80% reduction that patients are subjected to.
Additionally, digital radiographs provide a higher quality image for our dentists to review. In other words, a digital x-ray may provide insight into an issue that has just started. Besides, the image is immediately available on the chairside monitor in your treatment room.
Laser Technology
Our soft tissue laser allows us to perform gum contouring crown lengthening, biopsies, and cold sore treatments quickly and precisely. Stitches are not required when laser gum surgery is done at our Sumter, SC dental office. Unlike conventional methods of treatment, dental lasers provide scar-free healing and germ reduction.
Often, our dentist can perform un-planned laser dental surgery. The laser technology fits right in with other technology that provides same-day treatments.
Air Abrasion Unit: Drill-Less Dentistry
Finally, our popular air abrasion unit replaced the traditional dental drill. Most patients detest dental drills because they emit loud sounds, heat, and vibrations. In contrast, the air abrasion unit is quiet and gentle. Basically, it utilizes air, a fine abrasive substance, and water to prepare teeth for fillings.
In some cases, when patients receive air abrasion treatment no anesthetic is necessary. Typically, shallow cavities may not require anesthetic. Also, less of the healthy tissue is removed with air abrasion. Most beneficial, air abrasion may reduce the risk of your tooth cracking or chipping. As a result, you may extend the life span of your tooth.