If you’re wondering about what dental tools to expect during your check-up visit and professional cleaning, look no further than this guide from Aloe Dental Wellness in Goleta.
What Dental Tools Can I Expect To See At The Dentist’s Office?
At Aloe Dental Wellness in Santa Barbara County, we believe in providing the very best dental care to patients of all ages. Part of this commitment is making sure our patients feel informed about what each tool in a dentist’s office is used for. Some tools you can expect to see during a dental appointment include:
- Mouth mirror. This is perhaps the least intimidating tool used by dentists! It consists of a small mirror attached to the end which helps the dentist get a detailed view of the inside of the mouth. The mouth mirror enables the dentist to detect any tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. This tool also helps the dentist move the tongue out of the way without using their hands. It is designed to fit comfortably in the mouth and allows the dentist to check out every angle. It is difficult to look inside your own mouth due to the cramped space, but the mouth mirror makes it much easier for the dentist to have a good view.
- Saliva suction device. Formally called the saliva ejector, this is a helpful tool for both dentists and patients. It works as a small vacuum to remove any excess saliva from the patient’s mouth during a dental treatment. This prevents the patient from swallowing any calculus or getting overwhelmed by their saliva production, and also helps keep the work area clean. Ultimately, it makes the process simpler for both parties.
- Dental scaler. The scaler is a metal scraper that is often the most intimidating tool in the dentist’s office. It is used to remove large amounts of tartar and plaque from your teeth and gums. For those with healthy teeth, it shouldn’t be painful since it isn’t used as often. On the other hand, if you suffer from a condition such as gingivitis, it might cause some discomfort due to the bacteria and inflammation of the gums. The scaler is used to protect against tooth decay and is an essential tool in fighting gum disease.
- Dental probe. Many patients may be fearful of this hooked dental tool, but it is essential in detecting cavities and gum disease. The pointed end of the probe is used to identify pockets between the teeth and to clear away any plaque and tartar. When there is damage to the tooth, the probe can cause discomfort. This tool is utilized to determine the amount of damage done and how the dentist can help the patient heal. The probe is also used to check the health of the gums, similar to a scaler, although the focus is on the gums. There is no need to dread the probe if the teeth are healthy, however, if there is an issue with the gums, the dentist must take action to remove any bacteria and plaque beneath.
Expect Minimally-Invasive Dentistry With Aloe Dental Wellness
The constant advancement of dental technology has given us new ways to treat our patients. We are always learning to stay up-to-date with the most current technology and methods. At Aloe Dental Wellness, our commitment to excellent dentistry allows us to offer minimally invasive dentistry to our patients. Keeping healthy dental tissue is very important to make sure you have a beautiful, healthy smile for life.
Minimally invasive dentistry is a method that aims to remove the least amount of healthy tissue possible when giving dental care. 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, dental drills are 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.
Choose Aloe Dental Wellness For All Your Dentistry Needs
At Aloe Dental Wellness, you can expect the very best in dental care with Dr. Daniela Cadavid. Before your appointment, you can expect to enjoy soothing music and fresh coffee, tea, and water in our relaxing patient lounge. Our office is a child-friendly, family-oriented environment, and we pride ourselves on the ability to make patients of all ages comfortable.
Dr. Cadavid is glad to offer a brand-new office equipped with the latest technology and services in both English and Spanish to UCSB students and staff, as well as the surrounding communities. Aloe Dental Wellness in Santa Barbara County is proud to provide general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry services to meet the needs of your entire family as well. For an appointment, call us at 805-454-7727 today.
