Cosmetic Dentistry Technology

Modern dental technology allows Terry W. Forsberg, DDS, and his dental team at Advanced Smile Designs of Santa Cruz, California to offer exceptional care and distinctive dentistry services to all of their patients. This includes all cosmetic dentistry procedures and treatments from a simple porcelain filling to a complex neuromuscular condition such as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder).

The dentistry technology available at Advanced Smile Designs includes:

• CEREC computer
• Intraoral camera
• Digital X-rays
• Pulse Oximeter (vital signs monitor that monitors blood pressure, pulse and PO2)
• K-7 Evaluation system
• TENS Unit
• Lasers
• Biophotonic scanner to measure blood antioxidant levels

CEREC

The CEREC CAD/CAM system provides one of the latest technological advances in the field of dentistry. It is the only system designed to fabricate ceramic dental restorations right in the dentist's office. With the use of CEREC, Dr. Forsberg can create ceramic fillings, crowns and porcelain veneers to his specifications quickly and efficiently. Many procedures can be performed in one visit and the restoration is created while you wait.

Intraoral Camera

The intraoral camera is designed to take pictures of the surface areas of your teeth. By using this technology, Dr. Forsberg is able to show chips, fractures and other damage to you on a computer monitor. This can help you understand what the problems are and what types of treatment are necessary to fix them. It can give you more knowledge to help you make decisions between your dental treatment options.

Digital X-rays

A small sensor connected to a computer with a thin wire is the technology used in taking digital x-rays. The sensor is placed in various areas of your mouth. Then an x-ray beam passes through your teeth and into the sensor recording the image. The computer's software allows the image to be viewed on a computer screen so that any damage to the teeth can be viewed by both dentist and patient. Digital x-rays allow greater accuracy in making a diagnosis of the condition of your teeth through magnification, measurement, and colorization. This method also reduces your exposure to radiation by approximately 60%.

Pulse Oximeter (Vital Signs Monitor)

The pulse oximeter is a device to increase your level of safety during dental procedures and treatments. It can be used for continuous or intermittent monitoring of blood pressure and oxygen saturation in the blood stream. The pulse oximeter is a critical part of conscious sedation when the patient suffers from abnormal breathing patterns. At Advanced Smile Designs, your safety is one of our greatest concerns, and that is why we follow the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS) guidelines for patient safety during sedation.

K-7 Evaluation System

The K-7 evaluation system allows Dr. Forsberg to display and store data taken from patients who suffer from the effects of TMD (often called TMJ). The K-7 system includes an electromyography, a sonograph, and a computerized mandibular scanner (CMS). The collection of accurate data is extremely important in order to accurately diagnose and treat neuromuscular or bite dysfunction.

TENS Unit

The TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) Unit transmits electrical impulses that are used to stimulate the nerves and block pain signals. For neuromuscular dentistry purposes, the TENS Unit is used to relax the jaw muscles and help them to return to their normal resting position. This is important in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD and malocclusion (uneven bite). It also aids in relieving muscle spasms and tension and helps in muscle relaxation and extension.

Soft Tissue Laser

The soft tissue laser allows Dr. Forsberg to perform precise procedures with more control, causing less pain for the patient. The laser emits a light beam made of concentrated energy that vaporizes matter. The pulsed beam is very narrow and only vaporizes cell layers within the area of the beam. The soft tissue laser is used in such dental procedures as:

• Gum recontouring
• Soft tissue management in dental hygiene
• Bloodless incisions during surgical procedures

Dental technology is changing and advancing every day. In order for dental practices to keep up with the latest technology, dentists must methodically expand their education and techniques. This is one reason why Terry W. Forsberg, DDS, and his dental team continue to take courses and educate themselves whenever possible.

To learn more about dental technology or specific dental procedures, please contact Advanced Smile Designs of Santa Cruz County, California today.