Have you stepped inside a dentist's office lately? What you find might surprise you. It's not just the flat screen televisions in the waiting room and above the chair (though they are perks you can now find in many practices). Serious advances have made examinations and treatments more accurate, efficient and less painful than what you may recall.
From laser scans to in-office production of your tooth replacement, cutting edge technology is transforming dental care — and your oral health stands to benefit.
More and more dentists are embracing digital X-rays compared to film-based radiographs, and it's easy to understand why: reduced radiation levels up to 90%, images rendered almost immediately, and computer viewing and storage help dentists make diagnoses and comparisons in a matter of clicks.
The cavity search with a steel hook that typically follows X-rays now has a high-tech alternative as well. Dentists are starting to use "diode" lasers instead, which are far more accurate and much less uncomfortable. Cavity detection happens in a series of sweeps, and won't leave you in agony.
Once your treatment plan is under way, you'll soon come to find that even the materials being used are of much higher quality. Dental implants previously known for high failure rates are now straightforward and long lasting, involving a titanium screw that gets inserted into the jaw. Veneers feel more seamless thanks to an improved shell that requires less reshaping, and they are thinner, yet sturdy. And repairs to cracked or broken teeth look more natural due to better bonding solutions and techniques.
Through the use of computer-assisted design and manufacture technology (respectively known as "CAD" and "CAM"), some dentists are going one step further by making materials instead of ordering them. Rather than waiting weeks on end for your custom crown to arrive, in-office equipment makes it possible to have your replacement tooth much faster.
Perhaps some of the more noticeable transformations have occurred in the cosmetic field of work. New and improved options are available to help patients perfect that smile like never before. Fillings, which were previously easy to spot due to their dark metallic color, now come in porcelain or shades designed to match your tooth color. Teeth whitening treatments have become much more efficient, and can make your smile up to ten shades brighter in as little as an hour. Even braces have a much more appealing look, with an "invisible" or clear design that is growing in popularity.
As with any industry, adopting new technologies and procedures takes time and varies by dentist. If a previous experience has deterred you from getting regular care, you may want to research other local options and/or give your current dentist a call to learn about what you can expect today. Your oral health is on the line, and the world of dentistry has changed for the better.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
