At Dr. Heck's office, we are proud to offer our patients care with the latest in dental technology. We are committed to continuing our education, to learning more about innovative advancements in dental technology, and to providing our patients with the most state-of-the-art, comprehensive care available. Our practice utilizes the following technology:

Soft Tissue Laser

Because periodontal and gum disease can affect gum tissue that lies below the top layer of skin, it is not possible to treat gums with over-the-counter products. Despite what many drug store brands may advertise, patients suffering from gum disease must undergo tissue damage treatment by a certified dentist. Laser dentistry is a state-of-the art way to treat soft tissue damage caused by periodontal disease and other oral tissue problems. During laser treatment, a specialized light is focused onto the gums, effectively treating all layers of diseased tissue.

Soft tissue lasers are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and are safe for our adult and child patients.

To learn more about the soft tissue laser dentistry offered by Dr. Heck, please contact our offices today.

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The Wand

Many patients neglect routine dental treatment because of the fear and discomfort associated with needles. That is why Dr. Heck offers the Wand, a revolutionary anesthesia delivery system. The Wand, which greatly reduces the pain associated with traditional dental anesthesia, consists of a tiny needle attached to a pen-shaped device. Before the needle ever touches the gum, the pen will deliver a drop of anesthesia to the treatment area. This anesthesia delivery process will continue to numb the treatment area in front of the needle as it is slowly inserted. Patients report feeling little or no sensation, and there is never any discomfort caused by the sudden prick of the needle.

To find out more about the Wand, please contact Dr. Heck today.

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Intraoral Camera

In keeping with our dedication to patient education, our practice uses an intraoral camera, a diagnostic dental tool that allows Dr. Heck to more easily examine and identify tooth or tissue damage. The intraoral system consists of a tiny camera that is placed into the patient’s mouth. The camera takes photographs of teeth and gums and then displays the images on a computer screen that can be viewed by both the dentist and the patient. By utilizing the intraoral camera, Dr. Heck is able to easily point out dental problems and treatment areas to the patient. He will also use the displayed images to carefully show the patient the areas that he will be working on, making the treatment and procedure easier for the patient to understand.

To learn more about the intraoral camera, please contact Dr. Heck's Office today.

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Digital X-rays

Digital dental X-rays offer many advantages. Although the risk of radiation damage from normal X-rays is small, digital X-rays reduce exposure by 90 percent, enhancing your safety significantly. To take digital X-rays of your teeth, we insert a tiny sensor into your mouth. The X-rays are then instantly transmitted to a computer screen, where your dentist will review them with you. You can see any problems for yourself while reviewing your treatment options together. Digital X-rays help you to be more informed about your own dental health.

If you'd like to learn more about digital X-rays, please contact us today!

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Panographic X-rays

Panographic x-rays provide a comprehensive view of your mouth and supply vital information to Dr. Heck. While these x-rays are safe and give off only a small amount of radiation, you will still be asked to wear a lead apron to protect the rest of your body. During the procedure, x-ray film is positioned outside your mouth and a picture is taken as the x-ray head rotates around you. The panographic x-ray is a source of valuable information, as it shows the position of wisdom teeth, signs of jaw-joint problems, sinus problems, abscesses, and receding bone levels caused by periodontal disease. With this information, Dr. Heck can develop an effective treatment plan to meet your dental needs. The panographic x-ray will also allow you to visualize and better understand your oral condition.

 

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Computer Imaging

Have you been considering cosmetic dentistry but find yourself afraid that the change will be too dramatic? Have you always wondered what you would look like if you made a slight or dramatic change to your smile? Well, with Dr. Heck’s computer imaging program, you will be able to see a digital image that can give you a preview of what you could look like following any cosmetic dentistry procedure. Through the use of a digital photo, Dr. Heck can show you what your smile may look like after procedures like tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, or Invisalign®. Most importantly, this imaging system can help you decide which procedure will best help you achieve your dental goals. Computer imaging can help you have realistic, informed expectations for your cosmetic procedure.

To learn more about computer imaging, please contact us today.

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Caesy Patient Education System

In order to acquaint patients more fully with the procedures and technologies involved with cosmetic, restorative, and reconstructive dentistry, Dr. Heck uses the caesy Patient Education System. Before any dental procedure, the patient will have the opportunity to view the relevant portions of the DVDs, thereby gaining a more thorough understanding of the procedure he or she will undergo. By removing the fear of the unknown, the Caesy Patient Education System helps to increase the patient’s comfort level and peace of mind before what might otherwise be a more unsettling and frightening experience.

To learn more about the Caesy Education System, please contact us today.

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Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

For patients who want to feel more relaxed during their dental procedures, we offer nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. It is safe and effective in calming patients and making their dental visits more enjoyable. Nitrous oxide is administered through a mask placed over your nose. After just a few minutes of inhaling the gas, you will notice its effects. If at any time during the procedure you would like to change the dosage, Dr. Heck can easily adjust it, or you can control it yourself through your breathing. Patients have described nitrous oxide as making them feel calm, happy, and disconnected from what is going on around them. However, these effects diminish quickly after the mask is removed, so you will be able to drive home safely following your appointment.

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