The Latest Trends in Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is an ever-evolving industry. Technology is continually improving, bringing new information on how to treat our patients with better tools and education. Some of the latest trends are 3D dentistry, better screenings for oral cancer, and discreet braces.

3D Dentistry

While 3D graphics are not new, they are continually being improved and put to different uses. In dentistry, these graphics are helpful in taking better x-rays. These images create a model that dentists can zoom in on, get more accurate pictures, and generate more images with a single scan. With this tool, dentists can spot problems easier and faster than with traditional x-rays. Saving these images into the patient’s file is a more accurate health history too.

Even more beneficial is that these images are done with a computer and use little to no radiation. With less exposure, dentists have a safer option for checking inside the gums and is better for every patient.

Oral Cancer Screenings

One type of cancer that most people don’t think much about is oral cancer. It has a high mortality rate though, because it is so hard to spot. Part of a professional dental cleaning is inspecting the mouth for any problems or abnormalities. The biggest hurdle, like with any other cancer, is that it can go unnoticed until it is too late. Catching the cancer in its early stages increases chances of survival and less physical changes to remove it.

New advances in technology have provided us with tools to spot the signs of cancer earlier. Our office is currently using a system that uses blue light to find any lesions or pre-cancerous signs. It only takes a couple of minutes to do oral cancer screenings in Denver CO at our office.

You also play a part in early detection. Never be afraid to speak up when you are experiencing abnormalities. Some of the signs you can look for are:

• Mouth sores that won’t heal
• Lumps in the mouth or neck
• Difficulty swallowing
• Numbness in the mouth or face
• Growths that look like a wart
• Hoarseness
• Pain during swallowing, speaking, or chewing

If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment and come in to talk about them. We can do a screening outside of your biannual exams. If you have ever been diagnosed with oral cancer, know that your chance of having it reoccur are very high within the next 5 to 10 years of a first diagnosis.

Braces

Invisalign is not new, but their advances are continually improving. There are options to do it in a shorter amount of time. Instead of using the traditional bracket braces, you can choose custom trays to adjust your teeth a little at a time, but still faster. Invisalign is a fast, discreet method for straightening teeth, fixing bites, and correcting jaw problems. It is also more convenient for patients to eat and clean their teeth regularly. We highly recommend Denver Invisalign, but we do offer the traditional form of braces so that our patients can use whatever option with which they are most comfortable.

Technology is continually improving in the field of dentistry. We strive to keep learning and bringing what we feel serves our patients. If you need a dental cleaning, or have any concerns with your health, make an appointment to come in today. We would love to talk about how we can help you.