How Modern Technology paves the way
for minimally invasive dentistry

16 / 01 / 2023

Dentistry has come a very long way in the last 50 years.

So much so, that almost all treatments undertaken in the dental chair can actually be a pleasant experience for the patient (and dentist)! I write this emphatically because a great many of the leaps in technology mean minimally invasive and at times interceptive treatment is carried out. This will nip in the bud any little grumblers early on and avoid the teeth gremlins!

To start with, Digital Radiographs, instead of the old-fashioned wet film x-rays has improved the diagnostic quality of seeing decay between teeth. A dentist does not have X-ray vision… only Superman will be able to see decay between your teeth or under the fillings (among other things).

Digital radiographs have made detecting and planning treatments so much easier! Access to the problematic areas in the teeth will be smaller as the dentist will see what, where and how big a cavity is for example.

“Modern dental technology – Resin Composite is King here!”

If this wasn’t enough - Oral Cameras have brought diagnostic imaging and planning to a whole new level of experience for the patient.

Dentist: “I think you have a cracked filling”
You: “But I don’t have any problems with my tooth..”
Dentist: “OK, it looks like a crack but it is tiny, let’s leave it for the time being and put a watch on this tooth to review later”

This conversation was common pre-oral Camera era.

Now photos taken can help show what cannot necessarily be seen with the naked eye. The cameras are clear, sharp and very detailed. They help assist both the dentist and the patient. This camera also helps the dentist to be as minimal and conservative in the cavity preparation. Photos taken during treatment can reveal when the cavity is decay free and is a good shape to receive a filling without complications like the filling falling out or breaking.

So the cavity is prepared… modern dental technology is in the dental material used to fill this cavity. Resin composite is King here!

There have been many papers that talk about the many merits of composites and compare them to amalgam fillings – for this little blog I will give you two reasons why it trumps silver amalgam filling:

The tooth cavity design is smaller, as doesn’t need a larger cavity for the composite to stay put.
It’s a sticky material. This means it holds the walls of the cavity better. This reduces the risk of large, irreparable fractures to the tooth in the future.

Of course, I can’t resist that composite fillings are more aesthetic than the silver amalgams that tarnish and become black in later years.

A final note on modern technology in dentistry; for the early adopters of fancy gadgets and learning about new advances in science and technology –

Good, quality dentistry is here. There are so many tools and materials that are used to ensure a predictable and reliable outcome is achieved when performing a dental procedure. And this can all be done comfortably.

So – relax.

Author:
Dr Ashmai Zyada
Principal Dentist at Olive Tree Dental

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Callum Gibbons

09:56 24 Nov 22

I have been going to olive tree dental now, for about a year and a half. The service is always so friendly and they really help you make the best decision when it comes to your teeth. I have had Invisalign treatment with Patricia, which was exceptional.The regular hygienist appointments and general check ups are also very good, and the parking around the dentist is excellent. I would highly recommend going here.

Natasha Watson

16:34 10 Nov 22

From the first step through the door it felt far removed from the standard clinical feel of any dentist I had been to previously. Not only are the offices beautifully decorated and the staff welcoming and friendly but the resulting impression from my first appointment was one of confidence instead of fear. Dr Zyada was very thorough in her checks and took the time to go through each and every tooth to explain exactly what needed to be done and why. It makes the return appointment a lot less daunting, thank you. Would definitely recommend Olive Tree Dental.

Kyle Watson

11:19 08 Nov 22

The team at Olive Tree Dental are great! My dentist was very thorough and took the time to patiently explain her findings and what would be required for future visits. Like most people I don't enjoy going to the dentist, but the team made it as comfortable as possible. The rooms were really clean too!

robin martin

10:19 03 Nov 22

Discovered this place during Covid after a having dental emergency, was able to get an appointment very quickly, its very easy to get to and never had a problem finding a space in the free parking right next to it. All the staff are very friendly and the dentist goes the extra mile to sort out your dental problems. Being a new practise, The equipment and technology is very up to date and the surroundings are very smart, clean and put you at ease. Would highly recommend.

Christina Cowie

11:39 28 Oct 22

Olive Tree Dental are a fantastic dental practice. All of their staff are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. I was given an appointment here with Smile White UK teeth whitening and the dentist was lovely! She was great at advising me in detail how to use the teeth whitening for my teeth, as they are particularly sensitive. I would definitely recommend them.

Linn B

19:26 05 Oct 22

I went to Olive Tree Dental Clinic few times for teeth cleaning, emergency dental work and consultations. The clinic was very clean and inviting, stuff was very friendly and dentist was very gentle and reassuring. I appreciated the fact that she was communicating with me during the procedures so I wasn’t wondering what’s going on or when it will finish. I’ve been to quite a few dental clinics previously but never felt as valued and welcomed, and never got such high quality dental service. Highly recommend it to anyone and especially to those who feel nervous and anxious when visiting dentist. I feel lucky to live nearby!

Rebecca McNaly

17:34 03 Oct 22

I haven’t been to the dentist in a couple of years. Finally got myself round to booking at Olive Tree Dental and they made me feel welcome and comfortable! Everything is lovely and clean, and everyone is extremely friendly! I have to go back for a filling soon and I feel in safe hands!

How Modern Technology paves the way
for minimally invasive dentistry

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