The ongoing march of dental technology has led to new treatment options for our patients. Through ongoing education, we strive to stay abreast of the latest technologies and techniques. Our dentistry dedication allows the Aloe Dental Wellness team to bring minimally invasive dentistry to our patients in Santa Barbara, CA. Retaining healthy dental tissue is critical to ensuring that your smile remains healthy and beautiful for a lifetime. Minimally invasive dentistry allows us to retain more of that healthy tissue while providing restorative and aesthetic dental treatments.
The Core Principles of Minimally Invasive Dentistry
Minimally invasive dentistry is a technique that aims to remove as little healthy tissue as possible in the course of providing dental care. There are various approaches to this form of dentistry, each advantageous when treating different concerns. The foundations of minimally invasive dentistry are:
- Prevention – Preventative care is the most effective way of avoiding decay and gum disease. This involves a daily dental hygiene routine and consistent visits to your dental provider. These habits ensure you’re at reduced risk for decay and gum disease. Consistent dental visits ensure developing issues will be caught before advanced treatment is required.
- Remineralization Strategies – Remineralization is a process by which the existing enamel within the tooth is strengthened to prevent decay. While enamel cannot be restored once it’s gone, remineralization is possible. Remineralization is achieved primarily through the use of fluoride treatments and using fluoride-based dental hygiene products.
- Less Invasive Care – “less-invasive” can be broadly interpreted as “procedures that remove as little tissue as possible.” Traditional surgeries are considered invasive, though modern minimally-invasive processes exist.
This new form of dentistry helps Aloe Dental Wellness overcome the idea that effective dentistry is built on the back of the drill. While dental drills have long been an effective tool for oral health care, but they’re quickly becoming outdated. Dr. Cadavid uses dental lasers to perform most procedures that once required a drill. They can remove less tissue, speed recovery, and reduce discomfort after dental care.
Some common types of minimally invasive treatment include:
- Dental Sealants – This treatment involves the application of a thin layer of a special plastic that can protect teeth from bacteria and decay. Dental sealants are popular in younger and older patients, though anyone of any age can benefit from them.
- Icons: Resin infiltration can be used to remove or reduce white spots on front teeth caused by fluorosis without drilling your teeth. It also works to stop Interproximal decay between your teeth without a drill. This process can often be done without anesthetics.
- Inlays and Onlays – These restorations are an alternative to fillings and crowns that leave most of the tooth intact while addressing decay.
Contact Aloe Dental Wellness To Learn More Today
Aloe Dental Wellness is proud to provide exceptional dental treatment to our patient family in Santa Barbara, CA. We’re here to provide you with a healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Call today to arrange a meeting with Dr. Cadavid and our team. You’ll undergo a full dental exam and a consultation on the treatments that can address your oral health concerns. You’ll build a treatment plan with Dr. Cadavid to achieve your goals.
