There have been many exciting and new developments in dentistry that the public may not be aware of. Some of the more popular and useful advancements include digital radiography, in-office whitening without the use of a light or laser, and mouthguards for the treatment of migraine headaches.
Dentists used to take x-rays by exposing a small film that took several minutes to develop chemically. Today, many dental offices offer digital radiography. A computer sensor has replaced the film, and the images are available for viewing only a few seconds after exposure. The images can easily be enlarged or enhanced for easier viewing and more accurate diagnosis. The most appealing aspect of digital radiography is that the amount of actual radiation exposure is reduced by 90 percent, when compared to conventional film x-rays.
Whitening is also a common and popular procedure offered today by many dental offices. However, recent advances have allowed the development of whitening gels that can be applied at a one hour dental visit without the use of lasers or “special” high intensity lights. The patient can sit in comfort watching a movie, without requiring the application of sunscreen or ultra dark sunglasses, while getting their teeth whitened!
There are also several types of mouth guards that can be made for clenching and/or grinding, a condition often called “bruxing.” What some people do not know though, is that researchers have found a connection between bruxism and some types of chronic or migraine headaches. These types of headaches can be triggered by muscle spasms, especially along the side of the jaw or temples, or by hyperstimulation of adjacent nerves. A new type of mouthguard, called the “NTI,” is made especially to disperse the misdirected forces of bruxing. This helps to reduce the muscle spasms, suppress nerve activity and reduce the occurrence of headaches. The NTI guard is much smaller than a conventional full mouthguard, and therefore is more comfortable to many patients.
With new developments in dentistry becoming available everyday, many patients will benefit from a consultation with a dentist familiar with this new technology. It may be possible to treat certain dental conditions more effectively and comfortably than ever before.
For more information, or to make an appointment, call Dr. Joanne Young, D.D.S. at 661-257-6453.