High Tech, High Touch

HIGH TECH

and

HIGH TOUCH

Groh, Souviron, and Mannis, Dental Leaders

Today's dentistry poses educational and technological demands that were unthought-of two decades ago. Two innovations, dental implants and desktop computers have caused an upward spike in the learning curve required to transcend the average in the practice of dentistry. Our greatest obligation is to not lose track of the patient in the midst of the technology- a common failing of those dentists who think that merely owning the equipment is enough.

Drs. Groh, Souviron, and Mannis have been on the cutting edge of dental knowledge, and have proven over the years to have exercised good judgment in separating the fads from truly useful techniques. Below is a list and explanation of some of the many technologic innovations which will enhance, not detract from, your dental experience.

Digital Radiography is the process of utilizing computer assisted x-rays. No more darkroom, chemicals, or waiting. The x-rays flash right up on the computer screen, give more information, and use only about 10% of the radiation used for our conventional x-rays, which is already quite low.

Intraoral Cameras allow us to provide more accurate diagnosis by magnifying digital images of your teeth and mouth on the computer monitor. The added benefit to you is that you get to see everything that we do, and thus participate better in your treatment decisions. Informed patients are our best referral sources.

Integrated Practice Management System Practice Works, a subsidiary of Zila Pharmaceuticals, has provided our computerized practice management system. What this means is that we can have access to your records, appointments, history, x-rays and images, and financial account from any computer in the office. This system is carefully protected by security, and is actually safer than paper records. The advantage to you is instant access to your information when and where it is needed.

Piezo Tartar Removal is a special type of periodontal, or deep cleaning, performed with a supersonically vibrating instrument. Multiple scientific studies have found this type of cleaning to be more accurate in tartar removal than other types of cleaning. Tracy, Pura, and Kim use a combination of hand and piezo cleaning according to the individual needs and comfort of each patient.

Microprocessor Anesthesia Monitors are used for all patients undergoing anesthesia services. Constant monitoring of blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and electrocardiogram are standard safety measures for all sedation and general anesthesia patients.

Computerized Jaw Tracking is one of the many means we
have of diagnosing and documenting TMJ and related problems. Comfortable magnetic sensors are placed on the patient's jaws and the path and motion of jaw movement are computer analyzed. This process is similar to the gait analysis now used by many orthopedic specialists.

Doppler Joint Auscultation is an easy and painless means of using a super high powered Doppler stethoscope to hear the multiplicity of noises and crepitations made by unhealthy jaw joints. This is one way of diagnosing internal problems without always having to go to the expense of an MRI or CAT scan. Analysis of the type and timing of the joint sounds gives a good interpretation of internal pathology.

Electromyography is yet another computer assisted diagnosis for facial and TMJ pain, although this one is focused more on muscles than the mechanical parts of the jaw joints. It comfortably, easily and repeatably diagnoses spastic muscles and allows for the measuring of improvement after therapeutic measures.

Multimedia Patient Education and Relaxation Materials are available to all patients in multiple formats, including CD ROM, video tapes, audio tapes, and print materials. Most are available in multi-lingual formats. Please inquire.

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