The Latest in Dental Technology in Santa Barbara

Technology surrounding dental diagnostics and treatments have really evolved in recent years, and the good news is they make going to the dentist easier, safer, and more painless! Here at See Me Smile Dental, we take pride in utilizing the latest in dental technologies. It is a passion of ours.

How Do We Utilize Technology at See Me Smile Dental?

By keeping up to date on the latest dental and orthodontic innovations, we can give you the best dental care in Santa Barbara. Dental technologies of today include better materials, from improved crowns and bonding, to powerful 3D imaging techniques.

Why Is Dental Technology Important?

It is important to go to a dentist that keeps up with the latest technology for a variety of reasons, from improved safety and sanitation to better results.

We utilize many technologies at See Me Smile Dental. Of course, technology alone doesn't make for a good outcome - it is the combination of our caring staff, experienced doctors, and modern technologies that make all the difference.

What Are Intraoral Photos?

At See Me Smile Dental, we have many ways that we capture what is going on in the mouth. One way is through intraoral photos. "Intraoral" means simply "inside the mouth". We use intraoral photos, along with X-rays and other 3D technologies, to get a look at what's going on inside the oral cavity.

How Do Intraoral Photos Work?

To take intraoral photos, we use a tiny camera, on a device about the size of a small pen, to take digital photographs of your teeth and mouth. Because the device is compact and can reach into the interior of the mouth, it can capture images of areas that would otherwise be difficult to see with the naked eye.

Air Abrasion Technology Santa Barbara CA

What Is Air Abrasion?

Many patients don't like the old-fashioned dental drill, and fortunately we have modern alternatives. One such alternative to a dental drill is "air abrasion." Air abrasion is a modern dental technology that gently removes small cavities from the mouth without any drilling. It is also used to remove tooth staining and discoloration. In the hands of a skilled dentist (like ours at See Me Smile Dental), air abrasion can be used to improve older tooth restorations.

How Does Air Abrasion Work?

The air abrasion device emits a targeted stream of air and aluminum oxide particles. (Aluminum oxide is a white odorless crystalline powder that is safe to use.) This mixture of air and aluminum oxide is sprayed on the area that is being worked on - much like a mini sandblaster, but much more sophisticated.

Thus, air abrasion (like a sandblaster) removes the decay from the tooth, and a suction tube is used to remove the excess. (In order to keep your mouth free from any debris, a rubber dam or covering may be used to protect you.) Air abrasion is generally more comfortable than a traditional drill and does not cause any sense of pressure or vibration.

What Are Dental Lasers?

Dental lasers first started being used in the United States in the 1990s, and have become increasingly accepted as a powerful technological tool for the modern dentist. Different types of dental lasers may be used for different procedures, which operate at different wavelengths.

Dental lasers can be used for a variety of oral health challenges, including tooth decay, gum disease, canker sores, or lesions. They are also used to take biopsies (samples) of small pieces of oral tissue to check for cancer.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Lasers?

Dental lasers have many benefits. For example, in contrast with traditional dental drills, lasers are much less painful and may reduce or eliminate the need for anesthesia. Because they are more quiet and less threatening than a drill, dental lasers typically cause less anxiety in patients. They can also reduce bleeding and swelling when applied to the gums.

One popular use of dental lasers is in-office teeth whitening. In combination with a bleaching solution made with peroxide, the laser will be directed at the teeth to supercharge the tooth whitening process.

Finally, the dental laser offers a level of precision where the dentist can save more of the healthy part of the tooth when removing cavities.

What Are Dental Surgical Stents?

If you need dental implants, your dentist may set up a dental surgical stent. Made from a model of your mouth, this device looks like a plastic straw (the stent is acrylic) and has pre-drilled holes. The surgical stent fits over the section of your mouth where the implants will be placed. This enables our dentist to correctly place your new dental implants.

What Are Invisalign^Ⓡ Clear Aligners in Santa Barbara, CA?

A highly popular alternative to braces, Invisalign^Ⓡ clear aligners are custom made mouthpieces that fit over your teeth. They slowly create the right spacing between your teeth, but without the obvious appearance of traditional braces. Invisalign clear aligners can also be removed when you eat, making it easier to keep your teeth clean.

Meet Dr. Omid

Dr. Omid Barkhordar, DDS has earned his reputation as a leading family and cosmetic dentist in Santa Barbara, the Central Coast, and Southern California. He is committed to providing patients of all ages with compassionate care.

From general dentistry to advanced procedures, Dr. Omid uses innovative technology and gentle techniques to deliver safe and stress-free dental care so patients can enjoy a painless, healthy, and gorgeous smile.

Dr. Omid earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Southern California (USC) School of Dentistry in one of the best dental programs in the United States. His dedication to helping patients achieve their perfect smile has earned Dr. Omid the continued trust and recommendation of many clients.

No matter the age or needs of the patient, Dr. Omid is committed to helping you discover the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile.

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