Technology

DIGITAL X-RAYS

Dental x-rays have been a valuable diagnostic tool in dentistry for many years.  New technology provides us the opportunity to use digital x-rays. 

A digital x-ray is exceptional and delivers advanced imaging possibilities that allows for a precise image of your teeth and gums. Digital x-rays take less time and you are exposed to less radiation. 

For those who have trouble with gag reflex, there is even a way to capture an image of the teeth without having to put a sensor or x-ray film in your mouth. 

Digital x-rays will help us to obtain necessary information about your dental health in a quicker and more comfortable way.

DENTAL CONE BEAM CT

Digital x-ray technology has continued to expand and improve the precise diagnosis of different dental related problems. Joplin Family Dental has a Cone Beam Computed Tomography unit. CBCT scans are the latest and greatest technology available in digital imaging for dental patients.

The CBCT scan is used to obtain a 3-dimensional view of your upper teeth, lower teeth, sinuses and jaw bone. The Cone Beam x-ray can be used to diagnose the following:

• Locating the origin of dental pain
• TMJ disorders
• Surgical planning for removal of wisdom teeth
• Accurate placement of dental implants
• Evaluation of the jaw, sinuses, nerve canals and nasal cavity

This 3-dimensional view is better than the traditional 2-dimensional x-ray to provide a better and more accurate diagnosis for your dental problems.

DIGITAL IMPRESSIONS | ITERO SCANNER

• No more messy and goopy impressions!
• No more fear of impression material going down your throat!
• Gagging is minimized or completely eliminated!

Advanced technology can produce the best dental treatment results. Dr. Fitterling, Dr. Kirk, and the Joplin Family Dental team are excited to have this digital iTero technology available for our patients. The digital iTero scanner can be used for Invisalign, dental bridges, veneers, crowns, and onlays. 

The iTero scanner will enhance your comfort. In addition to your comfort, it provides greater accuracy and superior results for exceptional and long-lasting dentistry.

DENTAL DAM

A dental dam is a thin square of latex or non-latex rubber. It is a protective device that creates isolation of your tooth/teeth to prevent contamination of the area. Dental dams create a clean and dry area. Dental dams have the following advantages:

• Prevents the treatment area from being exposed to bacteria and saliva
• Protects your lips, cheek, tongue and gums from irritation
• Prevents the possibility of any water or materials from falling into your mouth
• Allows you to be more comfortable during your appointment
• Fillings bond more effectively to make them more durable.
• Dental dams provide better long-term dentistry.

Because of the overwhelming benefits of the Dental Dam, Dr. Fitterling, Dr. Kirk, and our Joplin Family Dental team use it for the majority of dental treatments.

MAGNIFIERS | DENTAL LOUPES

Have you ever looked up at your dentist, hygienist or assistant and noticed they are wearing some very strange looking glasses?

Those glasses are called Dental Loupes. It is a special magnifying lens to let Dr. Fitterling, Dr. Kirk, our hygienists and clinical assistants see finer details when they are performing examinations and dental procedures. Some loupes have special attachments such as lights and filters.

At Joplin Family Dental we want to provide you with the best dentistry possible. Dr. Fitterling have worn dental loupes for years as well as our hygienists and clinical assistants.

While you may think the dental loupes make them look a bit like a spelunker, they are essential in providing you exceptional and long-lasting dentistry.