Technology
Whether it’s cutting down on office visits through CEREC crowns and veneers, or using the cutting-edge technology of the VELscope to help with early detection of oral cancer, our office is constantly looking for new ways and methods to better serve our patients.
CEREC
CEREC is an acronym for “Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramic.” This is an advanced dental restorative system that allows Dr. Hewlett to restore decayed teeth or defective fillings with an all ceramic crown or veneer in just one appointment. The system uses CADA (computer assisted design) technology. This allows you to have the highest quality, most lifelike permanent dental restoration in just one visit.
Lasers
The diagnodent laser cavity detection system is used to scan teeth for hidden decay. This harmless laser light is able to detect microscopic decay before it is visible to the naked eye. This technology allows us to detect tooth decay at an earlier stage, before the decay has an opportunity to progress. When coupled with our no drill laser cavity preparation, you will get the best, most conservative, most painless treatment available today.
Digital Radiography
The digital x-ray system used in our dental practice allows us to provide instant x-rays while reducing the patient’s exposure to radiation by as much as 90 percent. We provide this level of care to our valued patients because digital x-rays are quicker, safer, and more convenient than traditional x-rays. We have the ability to enhance and magnify digital x-rays which greatly aids our ability to diagnose and assess any problems. Also, because these films are digital, they can be easily emailed to any specialist if necessary
VELscope
We are one of the first offices in the nation to be able to offer our patients the most current state-of-the-art technology used in the diagnoses of oral cancer. It is called VELscope and it is a revolutionary hand-held device that provides an easy-to-use instrument for the early detection of oral cancer. Oral cancer is often curable when detected and treated early. Unfortunately the tissue changes that lead to oral cancer actually start below the surface. These changes may not be visible to the naked eye until the disease has progressed to the surface. The VELscope handpiece emits a safe blue light into the oral cavity which excites the tissue beneath and at the surface and causes it to fluoresce. We are able to immediately view the different fluorescence responses of healthy vs. abnormal tissue. VELscope allows us to detect lesions that are below the surface, thus demonstrating the incredible advantage of using VELscope for cancer screening.
Intra-oral Fiber Optic Cameras
Our treatment rooms have both intro-oral cameras and patient computer monitors. The intra-oral cameras allow Dr. Hewlett to view your teeth and gums in precise detail. These images are transmitted to the patient computer monitor allowing Dr. Hewlett to communicate information about diagnosis and treatment options with patients more easily than was possible in the past. These images may also be sent to dental insurance companies to help facilitate payment for the patient. The images may also be of value to a specialist, should a referral be necessary.
Online Services
As a general dentist with a wide variety of patients, Dr. Hewlett has experience with dentures and partials. There are treatments available to help make dentures and partials more comfortable and secure.