New Dental Technology
New dental technology and hi-tech diagnostic tools are changing the way that modern dentists operate. Here are some of the ways that Dr. Meyer is taking Greenville dentistry into the new millennium.
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As with most cancers, the key to improving outcomes is early detection. The average
5-year survival rate for all cases of oral cancer is only 57%; detection at late-stage causes survival rates to drop to 18-21%. With early detection, survival rates soar above 80%.
Cavities can hide in your teeth. It is Dr. Meyer's goal to help you maintain and improve your oral health. To achieve this goal, the dental care that you and your family receive in our office always includes state of the art equipment. Among the newest technologies is a small laser instrument called the DIAGNOdent, which scans your teeth for hidden decay.
We can't cure what we can't see! Locating hidden decay before it destroys tooth structure (from the inside out) is a major goal of modern dentistry. The widespread use of fluoride supplements in dental materials, toothpastes and drinking water has made tooth surfaces harder and more resistant to decay.
However, diagnosing cavities beneath the hard surfaces is more challenging because the disease process can start through microscopic defects in the hard surface enamel and can readily spread into the softer tooth structure beneath the surface. X-rays and probing with an explorer are limited in detecting sub surface decay, particularly when the cavity is in its early stages. Fortunately, the new DIAGNOdent is a major breakthrough that allows the dentist to monitor the areas below the hard surfaces. The DIAGNOdent allows the dentist to locate hidden decay, and with the treatment stop the spread of disease before it destroys the tooth from within.
Patient friendly, especially for children. Dr. Meyer uses this unique instrument provides instant feedback on the health of the tooth. A pen-like probe simply glides over the tooth surfaces constantly checking the health of the tooth. A number scale and an alarm signals the operator and patient when there are signs of hidden decay. This new technology is safe and pain free for patients.
Dr. Meyer encourages regular dental check-ups, cleanings and home care. Early detection of problems minimize the expenses related to major tooth repair. New technologies take us a giant step forward to helping you achieve the goal of minimally invasive dentistry.