Dental Technology
Gentle Dental Arts uses advanced dental technology in Orem, UT, to make diagnosis and treatment more precise, comfortable, and efficient. This page explains the tools you may see during visits, how they work, and what benefits they offer so you can make informed choices about your care.
Dental Technologies We Use:
Dental Technology Explained
Modern dentistry relies on digital tools to gather accurate information and deliver care with greater comfort. Common Dental Technology Services include digital dental X-rays for low-radiation imaging, intraoral cameras for magnified views of teeth and gums, and intraoral scanners that replace traditional impression material. Many offices also use 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging when a three-dimensional view of the jaws, teeth, nerves, and sinuses is needed. For restorations, CAD/CAM systems design and mill ceramic crowns, sometimes in a single visit. Lasers may be used for soft tissue contouring, periodontal therapy, or to assist with cavity detection using fluorescence.
Patients often ask what is dental technology and how it changes a typical appointment. In short, these tools collect clearer data, reduce guesswork, and guide decisions. They also support patient education by showing images and scans chairside so you can see what the clinician sees.
Benefits of Dental Technology in Care
- Earlier and more accurate diagnosis helps prevent small problems from becoming complex treatment.
- Lower radiation exposure with digital X-rays improves safety compared to older film methods.
- Fewer appointments are possible when same-day crowns with CAD/CAM are appropriate.
- Improved comfort results from an intraoral scanner instead of messy impression trays.
- Personalized planning with 3D cone beam CT enhances precision for implants and root canals.
- Clear visuals from intraoral cameras make treatment options easier to understand.
How Dental Technology Works
Assessment And Imaging
Your visit may start with digital dental X-rays to assess teeth, bone levels, and cavities. When more detail is required, CBCT captures a 3D scan in seconds while you stand or sit still. These images help plan complex procedures, locate canals, or evaluate impacted teeth.
Digital Impressions And Planning
An intraoral scanner creates a 3D map of your teeth by taking thousands of images per second. This scan informs clear aligner planning, bite analysis, and crown or bridge design. The process shows how dental imaging works in real time, often displayed on a monitor.
Guided Treatment And Fabrication
For crowns or onlays, CAD/CAM software designs a restoration based on your scan. A milling unit shapes a ceramic block to match your tooth. For implant dentistry, digital guides based on CBCT can improve placement accuracy.
Verification And Follow-Up
Post-treatment photos or X-rays confirm fit and healing. Digital records allow comparison over time and support preventive care by tracking changes between visits.
What to Expect
Most digital images take only a few minutes. Bitewing X-rays involve a small sensor and brief exposure. An intraoral scanner feels like a smooth wand and usually takes several minutes per arch. A CBCT scan typically takes under a minute of stillness while the unit rotates around your head.
Radiation safety is a top priority. Digital systems use significantly less radiation than traditional film, and protective shields are used when appropriate. You may be asked to remove metal accessories before a scan to reduce image distortion. If you are pregnant or think you might be, let the team know so imaging can be planned accordingly.
If a same-day crowns CAD/CAM appointment is planned, expect time for scanning, design, and milling, followed by bonding and bite adjustments. Most patients appreciate the convenience of completing the restoration in one visit when clinically appropriate.
We Can’t Wait to See You!
Our dentist and team are dedicated to providing you with gentle, personalized care. Call to make an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Technology
Yes. Digital X-rays use a much lower dose of radiation than film, and lead shielding is used when appropriate. The diagnostic benefits generally outweigh the minimal exposure.
The scanner is a small handheld camera that glides over teeth. It does not press hard on tissues, and there is no impression material. Most scans take only a few minutes.
CBCT is used when a 3D view is important, such as for implant planning, evaluating root canal anatomy, assessing impacted teeth, or analyzing the jaw joints and sinuses.
In many cases, yes. CAD/CAM systems can design and mill a ceramic crown the same day. Suitability depends on tooth condition, bite, and material selection.
Advanced tools may streamline care and reduce appointments, which can offset costs. Your treatment plan will outline fees before you start so you can make an informed decision.
Remove earrings, glasses, or removable dental appliances if asked. Inform the team about pregnancy or medical devices. Most scans require no special preparation. For questions about dental technology in Orem, UT, or to schedule an appointment, contact Gentle Dental Arts at 801-224-1117. Appointments can be arranged with Dr. Alexander Larsen.