Dr. Billings uses the latest dental and technological advances when caring for your family's teeth. Click the links below to read more about these new techniques.
i-CAT Scan for 3D Data
 One of the greatest innovations to dentistry is the i-CAT Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System. This technology has truly revolutionized dental imaging. We can now produce immediate three-dimensional results that can be taken in our office in under one minute. The fast scan time minimizes the patient’s exposure to radiation. The patient sits in an upright position in an open environment to take the scan. The scan provides high resolution images of all oral and maxillofacial structures improving patient diagnosis and treatment.
Digital X-Rays
Dr. Billings uses digital X-Rays to provide a higher quality of dental care and more accurate diagnoses. The process of digitally capturing an image is faster, safer, and more comfortable for the patient. The development of digital dental X-Rays has been one of the greatest advancements in technology in the dental field that benefits both the doctor and the patient.
 How Digital Dental X-Rays Work
We place a small sensor in your mouth that is connected to a computer by a thin wire. Next, an X-Ray beam is sent through your teeth and into the sensor, which records the image of your teeth and sends it to the computer. The sensor can then be repositioned to photograph other sections of your teeth.
Why Digital Dental X-Rays are Better
The digital dental X-Ray system is more sensitive than dental X-Ray film systems, so the patient’s exposure to X-Rays is cut by as much as 50 percent. Fast image acquisition allows for quick retakes, if necessary. There is no time spent waiting for the image to develop, and diagnosis can begin almost immediately. The large, color-enhanced images let you see what your dentist sees, so it is much easier for you to understand how your dentist will treat your teeth. Patients’ images are saved with all other patient information, and they can be opened at any time. By using digital X-Rays, it is easier to compare images over time, and the images are less likely to be misplaced. Your fees do not include payment for photo chemicals, film, processing, or film storage. Used photo chemicals and film are not polluting the environment. Your dental checkups take less time, and it is fun to watch this system work! Most patients are amazed.
Lumix Cold Laser
 The Lumix Cold Laser is a painless, odorless advancement in technology that helps us aid the patient in the healing process. When the laser is used directly on the tooth or tissue, it stimulates the mitochondria in the cells of the affected tissue. This triggers the cells to produce more ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). ATP is source for the cell’s chemical energy, and it is required for the tissue to start healing. The laser also activates the cells to produce new proteins.
The laser was developed to help patients with:
- Hypersensitivity
- Pocket Depth
- Bone Regeneration
- Post-Scaling Pain
- Inflammation
- Dry Sockets
- Cold Sores & Ulcerated tissue
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- Pulptitis
- TMJ Disorders
- Sinusitis
- Parasthesia
- Implant Integration
- Post-Operative Tissue Healing
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Clinical Computers
Our practice has technologically advanced considerably. We have integrated clinical computers in each operatory. Having these computers aids us in treating patients because the records are now digitally recorded. Medical history, previous dental restorations, treatment plans, treatment notes, x-rays, intra-oral pictures, and insurance information can be easily accessed at any of our computers in a few key strokes. Having clinical computers allows us to take digital X-Rays which are automatically uploaded and stored in the patient’s chart. The patient’s X-Rays can be viewed on the computer screen in the operatory during a consultation. By being able to view an X-Ray on an 18” screen as opposed to a 1” film, we, as well as the patient, are better able to view any dental abnormalities or decay.
Intra-Oral Camera
It lets you see what we see! To help provide you with the best dental care, we utilize the intra-oral camera. The camera is a small, pen-shaped wand used to show problems such as deteriorating fillings, fractured teeth, bleeding gums, soft tissue injuries, or any other dental abnormalities. The camera is painless and does not emit any radiation. Seeing these images helps the patient understand any recommended treatment. When finished, these images are digitally stored in the patient’s chart for permanent record.
ViziLite® Plus
We have implemented a new advancement in oral cancer screening called ViziLite Plus as part of our exam procedure at routine cleaning appointments.
ViziLite Plus is a quick and painless procedure that helps the dentist or hygienist identify any abnormal or pre-cancerous tissues in the patient’s mouth.
After the regular visual exam, the patient will rinse his or her mouth with a cleansing solution. Then the dentist or hygienist will use a special luminescent light to examine all of the tissues closely. Normal, healthy tissue will appear dark in color; any abnormal tissue will appear white in color.
Oral cancer is most effectively treated when diagnosed early. The cost of treatment increases and the survival rate of the patient decreases when the pre-cancerous tissue is not caught early.
Logicon Caries Detector Software
This software is a technological tool available to dentists to help detect cavities between teeth, called interproximal cavities. The software compares a digital X-Ray of the patient’s teeth with a database of known problems. It then highlights any areas of concern, indicating the depth of the cavity. This alerts the dentist to check the area more closely for further evaluation. Results are then permanently saved digitally in the patients chart. Early detection of cavities leads to less invasive procedures, reducing the need for more involved treatment in the future.
Kodak Cosmetic IMaging Software
The Kodak Cosmetic Imaging Software enables us to take digital photographs of the patient’s mouth and simulate his or her smile with different cosmetic restorations, such as bleachings, bondings, diastema closures, veneers, and porcelain crowns. Being able to visualize the recommended treatment makes the case more exciting and gives the patient a better idea of what the end results will be.
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