Picture taking
This is brand new technology that produces a digital image without film or image plates. This gives the familiar black and white images that doctors and dentists use to diagnose. The pictures taken are a necessary part of the diagnostic process. Without them, disease may go unnoticed and undiagnosed until a more involved procedure is needed.  The images show the total tooth and supporting bone and tissue to assist us in the diagnosis of infection or disease that may need immediate attention.
In our office we use digital radiography which allows us to take pictures using the least radiation available on the market. The levels of exposure are comparable to 1/2 the daily background dose of radiation we recieve each day from the environment.  Coupled with computer monitoring, digital X-ray technology allows us to enhance the images for better diagnosis of any dental concerns.

SEALANTS
Sealants are used to protect the chewing surfaces of the posterior or back teeth.  These teeth often have deep grooves or pits in them making cleaning the area with a toothbrush almost impossible.  These grooves and pits will develop cavities over time if not kept clean.  Sealants are performed by a dentist or dental hygienist by "painting" a thin layer of a bonding agent on the teeth making them easier to clean and keep healthy.

FILLINGS
Fillings are done on teeth that have decayed.  The decay is removed, and the prepared cavity is filled.  Most teeth are treated with a tooth-colored bonding  agent called a composite resin filling.  If caught early enough, cavities can be treated easily and with conservatively.  If not treated in a timely manner, decay can lead to pain, infection and/or an abscess which may require a root canal or extraction.