Dr. Ferriot is constantly monitoring the dental marketplace for innovative and effective new technologies for the benefit of patients. Examples of such technological advances available in our office include the following.
Digital Radiography: The latest in dental x-rays is exciting for many reasons. It offers remarkably clear instant images. The amount of radiation exposure to patients is reduced as much as 80%. Sometimes it is not even necessary to place film sensors in the patient’s mouth to achieve excellent quality images. These images are displayed on large monitors mounted in each treatment room so that the doctor and the patient can clearly see the findings . Images can be sent by a few simple keystrokes to another office should a referral be appropriate. And almost as important, digital radiography is eco-friendly, with no caustic or toxic chemicals to dispose of.
Intra-Oral Camera: This remarkable innovation permits patients to see “up close and personal” the conditions inside their mouths. Magnification and the use of large monitors allow patients to see conditions in their mouths like never before. Patient education is a primary benefit; in addition, these photographic images can be stored for future comparison or emailed to insurance companies to document the need for treatment.
Electric Handpieces: Most patients cringe at the sound of the dental drill, and who can blame them. Such things conjure up memories of a more primitive time in dentistry. Today in our office, we use electric handpieces exclusively in preparing teeth for crowns and fillings. What’s the big deal? These modern engines rotate with precision, reducing vibration and reducing the noise of the “drill” up to 70%. You will appreciate the difference!
Curing Lights that do their job in 5 seconds: Modern dental materials set when exposed to concentrated blue light. In the past, such setting or “curing” required as much as 40-60 seconds. Faster, reliable curing leads to better restorations (fillings), greater durability, less post-operative sensitivity and less time in the dental chair!
Paperless Charts: The use of the standard paper chart has become a thing of the past in our office. New electronic charts provide immediate access to all workstations within the office and any chart can be retrieved in just a few seconds. The software design is such that all data is consistently organized in the same way. This leads to improved efficiency and convenience. It also allows us to communicate instantaneously with other doctors’ offices, should a consultation or referral be necessary. All software is HIPAA compliant and pass word protected to insure the privacy of patient records. Electronic charts are also eco-friendly because no paper products need be sacrificed for their fabrication.
