Dentistry has been well served by advances in technology over the years. In turn, Agawam dentist Dr. Michitti and his staff at Lifetime Dental of Agawam are able to use these advances to give his patients state-of-the-art care that is more effective, efficient and precise. Read on to learn more about some the advanced dental technology in Agawam, MA that we use in the dental office.
Gone are the days of taking an impression with a mouthful of molding material. With the 3M™ True Definition Scanner, we can capture the most precise digital dental impressions. This 3D-in-motion technology generates an accurate replica of your oral anatomy. The handheld wand fits comfortably in your mouth when you need a dental crown, porcelain veneers or dentures.
Air Abrasion works like a little sandblaster in your mouth. Dr. Michitti uses air abrasion to prepare your tooth for a filling and during some select cosmetic treatments. With air abrasion, a spray of fine particles is forcefully directed at your tooth to remove an area of decay or staining. Decay, debris and the particles are suctioned away. When appropriate for treatment, air abrasion eliminates the need for using a drill so there is no heat, pressure or vibration. And in the case of a shallow cavity, a local anesthetic may not be necessary.
Digital x-rays have all but completely replaced traditional dental x-rays. Digital radiography is quite similar to the process for traditional x-rays that used film. A small sensor is placed in your mouth to capture the image of your teeth. The sensor is electronic and connected to a computer; once the x-ray is taken, an image appears on the chairside computer monitor. Digital x-rays require far less radiation than film x-rays—up to 90 percent less—provide higher quality images and are environmentally friendly.
To treat periodontal disease, Lifetime Dental of Agawam uses a soft tissue laser. With the energy and precision of a laser, Dr. Michitti removes bacterial infection from above and below the gum line in order to help soft tissue heal from this disease and be healthy once again. The laser is as thin as only a couple of human hairs. Inserted between your teeth and gums, only diseased tissue is removed; healthy tissue remains unharmed. In addition, the laser seals blood vessels as it removes damaged tissue, so there is less bleeding during and after treatment.
We can now use a small instrument that emits a concentrated beam of light to address more advanced cases of gum disease quickly and comfortably. Laser treatment is extremely precise and able to remove bacteria and buildup deep below the gum line while leaving any nearby healthy tissue untouched. It emits almost no heat, sound, or vibration, so the patient basically feels nothing while in the chair. Thanks to the laser’s accuracy, post-treatment soreness and bleeding are reduced to practically zero, and the tissue is cauterized to ensure fast and complete healing while greatly diminishing the chances of future infection.