Common Dental Procedures Continue To Improve Over Time

Dental procedures have come a long way since the ancient Egyptians were attempting cosmetic surgery. It's a good thing, too! Some of the historical methods were neither safe nor effective. Even a glance a few decades back conjures up memories of frightful dental visits and painful procedures.

All that has changed. Here are some of the ways that common dental needs are being treated in high-tech ways.

• Digital X-rays. With the advent of new x-ray technology, patients can instantly see what their own teeth look like, and better understand their condition. All it takes now are mere seconds before the dentist or a technician can show patients exactly what problem areas exist.

• Tooth whitening. One of the most apparent areas of dental improvement is the area of cosmetic dentistry. For centuries, people have longed for whiter teeth in order to produce a more beautiful smile. Now, such technology is available through inexpensive pharmacy kits, or through a few sessions with the local cosmetic dentist.

• Computerized anesthetic injections. One of the most feared aspects of a dental visit is having painful anesthetic shots so dentists can perform procedures without additional pain. Today, dentists use computerized injections that make anesthetic injections worry-free, precise, and not nearly as painful. Plus, the anesthetic can be administered in such a way that it doesn't numb the lips and tongue. No more saggy-lip after leaving the dentist!

• Alternatives to braces. Braces aren't for everyone, and some people would prefer to have their dental correction without them. Today's technology includes clear plastic aligners to help correct teeth placement without a mouthful of metal.

• Tooth implants. Dentists have created implants for centuries, but only until recently have these implants been comfortable and fully functional. With the tooth implants available today, they actually preserve bone health and help with muscle texture in the mouth providing the same exact functionality and the proper feel of natural teeth.

• Plaque removal. Plaque buildup on the teeth has long been recognized as a cause of dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease and a whole host of other issues. With ultrasound technology and air abrasion, plaque can be remove painlessly and quickly.

• Antibacterial agents. The growth of bacteria in the mouth is one of the causes for halitosis and tooth decay. There are many antibacterial products available today that targets bacterial growth at the source, putting a quick stop to potential problems.

• Dental abscesses. One of the most painful and notorious of dental procedures is the removal of a dental abscess. Thanks to technology -- not to mention local anesthesia -- abscesses can be quickly and relatively painlessly removed.

You may still have an aversion to dental visits. With modern techniques and technology, you can rest assured that the treatments you have to cope with are a lot more effective, will cause you a lot less pain and are a lot easier than those same dental procedures of even just a few years ago.