Apple Tree Dental is committed to using proven technology that improves the experience and comfort of our patients and delivers the best possible clinical care. We are dedicated to leading the industry in technology advancements.
There are many advantages of digital x-rays over the use of traditional film, including instant availability of images for viewing, a 90% reduction in radiation exposure, and the ability to enhance images to improve interpretation and diagnosis. Digital x-rays also eliminate the need for harsh chemicals in the development process, producing less waste and minimizing environmental impact.
Some of our Centers have scanners that take digital impressions rather than use impression material. Digital scans increase patient satisfaction (no unpleasant impression material in the patient's mouth!), serve as a patient education visual aid, take less chair time, reduce material waste, and decrease the likelihood of errors and material inaccuracies. They are also much easier to store.
3D imaging gives our doctors optimal precision when performing a root canal or placing a dental implant, and can even allow them to see pathology that could never be detected by a visual exam or even a standard dental x-ray.
3D imaging allows our doctors to see precise representations of structures that aren't visible in the mouth for procedures like root canals, tooth extractions, or dental implant placement. It can allow them to see problems that may not be detected by a visual exam or even a standard digital x-ray.
Intraoral cameras are another example of technology used by Apple Tree Dental which allows our patients to see exactly what our clinicians see in their mouths.
The camera is guided around the inside of the patient's mouth, generating a tooth-by-tooth video exam. Large close-ups of teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues can be viewed on the flat screen monitors located in each of the treatment rooms. These images are stored in the patient's chart for documentation and are available for future viewing or printing.
Teledentistry
Teledentistry is the use of intraoral images, radiographs, and/or photos or video technology to provide virtual visits and collect information to make further health decisions.
Apple Tree Dental has utilized teledentistry since 2002 while working in collaboration with community sites, including long-term care facilities, schools, and Head Start programs, to connect dental providers to patients and other providers. We are able to provide HIPAA-compliant teledentistry exams for patients. This means that all of your information is safe and secure, and your exam is private and not accessible to anyone else.
This technology was crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, but beyond the pandemic, this modality can continue to be used for patients who are unable to come into the clinic, whether due to a compromised immune system or because a patient is simply unsure whether their dental concern requires an in-person exam.
In 2022, Apple Tree Dental won an innovation award for our use of teledentistry.
