Thanks to our 3D impression scanner, we can use the model of your smile to plan your implant surgery. By getting a clear and accurate view of your teeth, Dr. Burdo can anticipate any potential issues and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. This allows him to avoid second-guessing and ensure that your implant is placed precisely where it should be.

In the past, the only way to remove infected gum tissue was surgery. Unfortunately, the surgical process harms your healthy gum tissue in order to remove bacteria. Now, there’s a more comfortable and less invasive alternative with laser dentistry.

Using a specialized dental laser, Dr. Burdo can rid your gums of bacteria without harming any of your healthy gum tissue. The procedure is also painless and easy to recover from since it doesn’t require a scalpel or stitching. If you have gum disease, laser treatment is the most convenient treatment available.

Our 3D impression scanner is a state-of-the-art device that captures high-resolution images of your entire mouth. This allows us to get the information we need and relay it to the laboratory immediately, without waiting for shipping. The scanner also eliminates the need for traditional dental impressions, which many patients find uncomfortable and inconvenient.

Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.

Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Dental x-rays may reveal:

• Abscesses or cysts
• Bone loss
• Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
• Decay between the teeth
• Developmental abnormalities
• Poor tooth and root positions
• Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
• Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Are dental x-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays. Not only are digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, they are faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.

Even though digital x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, dentists still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation. These precautions include only taking those x-rays that are necessary, and using lead apron shields to protect the body.

How often should dental x-rays be taken?

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.  Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.

• A full mouth series of dental x-rays will be done for all of our new patients.  A full series is usually good for three to five years.
• Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.

This specialized dental laser allows us to use multiple wavelengths to completely remove any bacteria and sterilize the root surfaces of the teeth. The laser is site-selective, which means it doesn’t harm any healthy tissue compared to conventional treatments.

• Er:YAG energy is the optimal wavelength for removing hard and soft tissues. That means we can treat cavities without a drill and reshape troublesome areas of your teeth or gums more easily.
• Nd:YAG energy is best for coagulation and deep disinfection. We use this type of laser for treatment of the soft oral tissues, like your gums. It’s ideal for treating periodontal disease without the need for sharp objects.

Combining treatment with these two wavelengths allows us to treat you more efficiently. Procedures like LANAP simply cannot deliver the same outcome because they only use one wavelength.

We’re absolutely committed to the best treatment options for you. That’s why we keep our office updated with the latest tools. Our patients also love the benefits that laser treatment provides.

Learn how we can make your dental visits easier by calling our office at (215) 383-6700 or by filling out our convenient online contact form. We’re always happy to help you.