TECHNOLOGY

In recent years, dentistry has experienced a surge in innovative technology that might accurately be described as revolutionary. New products, new techniques, new precision machinery and new, improved treatment breakthroughs are being introduced at such a rapid pace that many practicing dentists simply can’t keep up. Only the most dedicated dentists are willing to invest significant funds in the newest, state-of-the-art dental equipment and technology. And only a few are willing to sacrifice their leisure time to long hours in continuing education classes learning about innovative new dental procedures. Dr. Ron VanWechel is one of the dedicated few.

Throughout his 30-plus years of dental practice, Dr. VanWechel has embraced leading-edge dental technology and the new avenues of superior treatment it opens for his patients. His patients are the beneficiaries both in terms of the administrative efficiency of his practice and the diagnostic and clinical advantages of the innovative technology he provides.

Here are some examples of how the newest advances in dental technology can benefit you:

LASERS

Dr. VanWechel has used four different types of lasers in his practice since 1997. Why? Because when compared with more traditional scalpel surgery, lasers have been found to cause less bleeding and considerably less pain for patients. Lasers also promote faster healing.

The Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) using the Periolase laser is easily the most dramatic laser breakthrough in recent years. It is an alternative to painful scalpel surgery for gum disease. LANAP is the only laser gum therapy that has received FDA clearance, and Dr. VanWechel has used it since 2006. With this “scalpel-free” advance in the treatment of gum disease, it is no longer necessary to “cut and stitch” the patient’s gums.

See more about LANAP and Periolase in the LASER GUM TREATMENT section.

DIGITAL X-RAYS

Because we have computers in every operatory, patients can view film images of their teeth on a screen. You cannot diagnose what you can’t see. And it’s much easier seeing an image on a large screen than on a one-inch film negative. When patients can actually see visible decay, they can more easily understand the recommendations to treat it. Digital X-rays use far less radiation, and they also facilitate electronic transmittal to other specialists for collaborative interpretation.

INTRA-ORAL CAMERAS

Intra-oral cameras (in every operatory) show patients exactly what Dr. VanWechel and his staff see. Patients can view magnified images of the decay, cracks, leaks, etc. with their own eyes and understand and discuss the treatment recommendations for remedies.

DIGITAL PHOTOS

Now the recommended method of documenting clinical situations before and after treatment, digital photos enable the patient to observe their teeth and overall smile as others do. Most patients don’t realize, for instance, how their “old” dentistry may be seriously mismatched, or how their smile actually looks from up close. These photos are especially helpful when discussing a patient’s goals for his or her smile.

DIGITAL CHARTING OF YOUR DENTISTRY

Your current dentistry and your Treatment Plans are entered directly into your digital chart. We also track treatment provided by other specialists such as orthodontists or oral surgeons. This “at-your-fingertips” record-keeping makes it easier to answer insurance questions and track your dental health and pharmacy records. And, of course, we are better able to discuss your specific issues with you during your appointment or over the phone.

DIGITAL PERIOCHARTING

We measure your gums at each visit to determine whether or not you are developing gum disease, which is currently reaching epidemic proportions in America. Your readings are entered directly into our software rather than transcribed so our computers can made immediate comparisons with readings from your last visit. Any changes in your gum measurements will be immediately apparent.