Our state-of-the-art technologies ensure accuracy, efficiency, and comfort. Our dental equipment is safe, effective, and well-maintained. Some of our dental technologies include those listed below:
X-Rays
This is a focused beam of X-Ray particles through bone which produces an image on special film, showing the structure through which it passed. This gives the familiar black and white images that doctors and dentists use to diagnose problems. X-rays are a necessary part of the diagnostic process, and not to use them could lead to undiagnosed disease. Without an X-ray of the whole tooth, and supporting bone and gum tissues, there is no real way to detect infection or pathology that requires attention.
In our office we use digital radiography which allows us to take X-rays using 50-70% less radiation versus conventional X-rays. Coupled with computer monitoring, digital x-ray technology allows us to enhance the images for better diagnosis of any dental concerns.
Panoramic X-Ray
A Panoramic x-ray machine rotates around your entire head to take a 360-degree view of your teeth, sinuses, and the bone structure of your head and jaws. This provides a more complete image than standard x-rays. Panoramic x-ray imagery is a valuable resource for Dr. Van De Walle and Dr. Tompkins to use in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Intra-oral Camera
The intra-oral camera is about the size and shape of a pen. It is used to record images of your teeth, gums, mouth, and tongue from inside your mouth. Due to its small size and sleek design, it is comfortable, easy to use, and able to view a wide range of angles. The intra-oral camera is a safe and effective tool that can be used with patients of every age.
The intra-oral camera is a highly valuable resource for both diagnosis and treatment planning. Each time we use the intra-oral camera, a new disposable cover is employed. This ensures your health and safety at all times. After your exam, images captured by the intra-oral camera may be digitally stored, printed out, or deleted.
Cavitron
The Cavitron is a handheld device used in periodontal deep cleaning. While scaling can be completed by hand, the Cavitron uses ultrasonic technology to remove calculus from teeth and gums quickly, gently and effectively.
With the Cavitron, patients enjoy a more comfortable experience and time spent scaling and polishing is decreased.
Intra-Oral Scanner
What is the secret to making a great impression? At Van De Walle Family Dentistry, we use our intra-oral digital scanner to ensure that the impressions we take are accurate, efficient, and comfortable every time.
Impressions are necessary for the fabrication of dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Our hand-held intra-oral scanner takes 3-dimensional digital video impressions with proven accuracy. Even the most challenging cases can be accurately scanned with our intra-oral scanner.
Another benefit to you is reduced time. When we send precise digital scans to our lab, your restorations require less preparation work and can be fabricated more quickly. This means you can have your restoration placed and be enjoying the results sooner than with traditional impression methods.
In the past, you may have experienced dental trays that filled with a soft substance that hardened into an impression of your mouth and teeth. With the intra-oral scanner’s small hand-held wand, we can take accurate digital impressions quickly and easily, without tripping your gag reflex.
Even more, as we complete your scan, you will be able to view the impression on the monitor along with us. This allows you to see more precisely why we have recommended restoration for your oral health needs.
We look forward to seeing you again at your next appointment with us. We love to make a great impression.