What’s New
High-Tech X-Rays: Digital X-rays create images immediately using a sensor that’s connected to a computer. “In my office, I put them on a wide-screen TV,” says Dr. John Moser, owner of Third Ward Dental. And 3D imaging, the latest frontier in dental X-ray, helps root canal specialists and oral surgeons see more details in teeth and bone, which allows for more accurate procedures.
Robot-Assisted Surgery: For better precision in replacing missing teeth, some providers use robots to help guide where the implant is placed in the bone.
Extra-Oral Imagery: Mouth pain and gag reflex can make it hard to get an X-ray inside of your mouth. “Some dental practices have machines that take images between your teeth from the outside, without anything inside of your mouth,” says Dr. Nathan Darling, owner of Darling Dental in Glendale.
Laser Dentistry: More dentists are using lasers to assist with diagnosing and treating cavities. “You go through with a laser that measures all the nooks and crannies of the teeth, and when the laser hits a certain number, you can be sure it’s a cavity,” Darling says. Lasers also can be used to remove cavities before putting in fillings.
Automated Anesthetic Delivery: New technology can deliver anesthesia at a more controlled rate and without the sharp needle, making the process basically pain-free.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Beyond Brushing
The finer points of how dentists care for their teeth at home
What you know:
Brush for two minutes, twice a day – morning and night.
What you might not know:
Wait 20 minutes after eating to brush. “Eating creates an acidic environment in your mouth, which eats minerals out of your tooth enamel,” says Dr. Nathan Darling. “If you brush during that time, it’ll take longer to remineralize, which could cause erosion on your teeth.”
What you know:
Use a fluoride toothpaste.
What you might not know:
Squeeze enough paste to permeate the bristles; you don’t need a ribbon like you see in commercials. Whether you use a manual or (recommended) electric toothbrush, Darling says, make sure to establish a regular pattern so you don’t miss areas. Dr. John Moser suggests holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle pointing toward the gum line. Don’t scrub too hard, or you could harm your gums or enamel.
What you know:
You gotta floss!
What you might not know:
Flossing reaches the part of your teeth and gums your toothbrush can’t. “Don’t saw against the gum tissue, or you could harm your gums,” says Moser. Instead, glide the floss up and down to the gum line, curving it around the front and back of each tooth.
What’s one question you’re asked a lot?
Q: Why am I getting so many cavities?
A: Few and far between, people have soft teeth or enamel, or they have a condition that causes their saliva to be more acidic. But for most of us, it really boils down to eating less sugar and doing a better job brushing and flossing. – Darling
