Modern Dental Technology

modern dental technology

We practice modern dentistry

Technology in the dental field is ever-changing, so we make sure to stay on the cutting edge by integrating state-of-the-art equipment into our practice. This allows us to diagnose with more accuracy and treat patients with less pain and in fewer visits. It also equals less time in the dental chair and a more comfortable experience from start to finish. We use only the best materials and methods to ensure stunning and reliable results time after time.

At Innovative Smiles, we’re dedicated to making sure that our patients have a convenient, positive, and stress-free experience. From our warm, welcoming lobby to our modern treatment rooms, you can rest assured that our team will take great care of you!

Solea laser treatment | modern dental technology at Innovative Smiles in Houston, TX

The Solea Laser is a revolutionary advancement in dentistry, offering a painless and efficient alternative to traditional dental procedures. This CO2 laser technology allows dentists to clean out cavities without the need for shots or anesthesia, making it particularly beneficial for children and anxious patients. The precise laser targets decayed tissue without affecting the surrounding healthy tooth structure, resulting in quicker, more comfortable procedures. Patients can enjoy a pain-free experience, eliminating the fear and discomfort often associated with dental visits.

In addition to cavity treatment, the Solea Laser is also highly effective for performing tongue tie releases with minimal numbness. The laser’s precision and gentle action allow for a swift and minimally invasive procedure, reducing the need for extensive numbing and minimizing recovery time. Despite its numerous benefits, less than 1% of dentists nationwide currently use this cutting-edge technology, highlighting its exclusivity and the advanced level of care provided by practices that have adopted it. The Solea Laser represents a significant leap forward in patient comfort and dental care efficiency.

STA wand | modern dental technology at Innovative Smiles in Houston, TX

The STA Wand (Single Tooth Anesthesia) is an innovative device in dentistry that significantly enhances the patient experience by providing precise and comfortable anesthesia. Unlike traditional methods, the STA Wand uses computer-controlled technology to deliver anesthesia slowly and steadily, numbing only the targeted tooth instead of the entire surrounding area. This precision minimizes discomfort and allows patients to avoid the typical side effects of conventional injections, such as prolonged numbness and potential swelling.

One of the main benefits of the STA Wand is its ability to reduce patient anxiety. Many patients, especially children, fear needles and the associated pain. The STA Wand’s minimally invasive approach and gentle delivery make the process virtually painless, transforming the dental visit into a more pleasant experience. Despite its advantages, the STA Wand remains relatively exclusive, with a limited number of dental practices nationwide incorporating this technology. Those that do offer it, such as Innovative Smiles, can provide a higher level of patient care, distinguishing themselves as leaders in modern, patient-focused dentistry.

dental technician removing jaw model from a 3D printerBy far the biggest advancement in dentistry is the development of 3D printers. Recently the FDA has approved resins that approved for final restorations, dentures, and other dental products. 3D printers provide exceptional accuracy and precision in the creation of dental prostheses, including crowns, bridges, and dentures.

With its advanced technology, these printers produce high-quality 3D models that allow for a more efficient and streamlined workflow, reducing the time required for traditional manufacturing methods. This not only saves valuable time but also allows for a more cost-effective process that ultimately benefits the patient.

3D printers also enable us to create custom-made prostheses tailored to the specific needs of individual patients. This is particularly important for patients who require complex or challenging dental restorations that cannot be achieved through traditional methods in less than 24 hours post surgery.

Furthermore, the printer’s ability to print in biocompatible materials such as ceramics, resins, and metals, ensures that the final products are safe and reliable, with minimal risk of adverse reactions or complications.

Overall, 3D printers provide our office with cutting-edge technology that enhances patient care and satisfaction, increases efficiency and accuracy, and ultimately improves the quality of dental prostheses.

CAD-CAMComputer-aided design (CAD) involves the design and creation of three-dimensional models for services such as crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and bridges with absolute precision. Even dentures, mouthguards, and some forms of orthodontic treatment result from this technology. Sophisticated software allows these highly detailed procedures to become more controlled than ever before.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) sends the geometrical design data to an automated milling machine. This digital manufacturing process offers many enhancements for you, including:

  • Precise metal-free beauty
  • Undetectable surface texture
  • Single dental visit convenience
  • Exceptional fit and function
  • Durable, long-lasting service
intra oral camera

Intra-oral imaging gives you a hassle-free, detailed view of your mouth in pictures and videos.

Putting specific problem areas onto a computer screen lets us see with clarity and detail that’s not possible with a traditional mouth mirror. Hand-held wands quickly capture the details of your teeth and gums. In fact, even small cracks that often lead to broken teeth appear vividly with the click of a button. We can explain the need for treatment more clearly by showing you what we see in great detail.

As an added benefit, dental insurance benefits often pay more quickly with the visual proof of a digital image.

intra oral scannerThe use of intra-oral scanners in dentistry offers several benefits, including:

  • Improved accuracy | Intra-oral scanners provide highly accurate digital impressions of a patient’s teeth and oral structures. This reduces the chances of errors that can occur with traditional impression materials and techniques.
  • Time efficiency | Intra-oral scanners can capture digital impressions in just a few minutes, compared to the time-consuming process of creating traditional impressions, which can take 10-15 minutes or more.
  • Improved patient experience | Patients may find intra-oral scanning more comfortable than traditional impressions, as there is no need for uncomfortable impression trays and material.
  • Improved communication | Digital impressions can be easily shared with dental laboratories, making it easier to communicate treatment plans and collaborate with other dental professionals.
  • Better outcomes | The use of intra-oral scanners can improve the overall quality of dental restorations and other treatments, leading to better outcomes for patients.
  • Faster turnaround times | Intra-oral scanners significantly reduce turnaround times by eliminating the need for traditional impression materials and shipping delays. With instant digital images of your teeth, our team can swiftly proceed with treatment planning and fabrication of dental restorations, ensuring a quicker and more efficient dental experience for you.

Overall, the use of intra-oral scanners can improve the efficiency, accuracy, and comfort of dental treatments while enhancing the patient experience and outcomes.

digital x-ray

Digital sensors capture detailed x-ray images with a fraction of the exposure found in traditional film x-rays. Technological advancements in x-ray technology provide multiple benefits:

Safety | Our digital x-ray system provides up to 90% reduction in radiation compared to older film-based systems.

Time Savings | Images captured instantly with a digital sensor lessen the time you spend in the dental chair.

Better Outcomes | Improved image clarity increases our ability to diagnose and treat conditions.

ceiling-mounted TV's in treatment rooms at Innovative Smiles in Houston, TX

At Innovative Smiles, ceiling-mounted TVs are a thoughtful addition to our treatment rooms that are designed to enhance patient comfort and relaxation. Recognizing that dental visits can sometimes be stressful, especially for children and anxious patients, we have installed these TVs to provide a pleasant distraction. Patients can watch their favorite shows or movies during their dental procedures, which helps to ease their nerves and create a more enjoyable experience.

From our patients’ perspective, the ceiling-mounted TVs at Innovative Smiles make a significant difference. Instead of focusing on the dental work being done, you can immerse yourself in entertainment, making the appointment time feel shorter and more comfortable. This modern feature reflects our commitment to providing a patient-centered environment, where your comfort and positive experience are top priorities. The TVs in our treatment rooms help create a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring that your visits are as pleasant and stress-free as possible.

facial scannerUsing a facial scanner for a more predictable and esthetic smile design offers several benefits. By capturing accurate digital images of a patient’s face, teeth, and gums, the scanner can assist in creating smile designs that are comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

Here are some of the specific benefits of using a facial scanner for smile designs:

  • Accurate measurements | The scanner can capture precise measurements of the patient’s mouth, including the position of the teeth and the contours of the gums.
  • Improved aesthetics | The digital images captured by the scanner can be used to design a smile that matches the patient’s natural teeth and gum line, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
  • Enhanced functionality | The scanner can capture information about the patient’s bite and jaw position.
  • Faster turnaround times | The digital images captured by the scanner can be quickly sent to a dental laboratory, allowing for a faster turnaround time.

Overall, using a facial scanner can lead to more accurate, aesthetically pleasing, and functional smile designs.

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New Patient Special!

Without Insurance – $165
Includes exam, x-rays, standard cleaning, and fluoride

With PPO Plan – $150 Credit
Towards dental treatment with full exam and x-rays