Technology

Life is busy. Finding a few moments to yourself during a hectic day can be a challenge. At the dental office of Helma Philips you can kick back and relax while we look after your dental health. Televisions in our treatment rooms means that you can watch your favorite program and relax while you are with us and take your mind off of your treatment.

To purify all air in the office, we installed the new Reme Halo equipment in our central air conditioning ducts to treat every cubic inch of air in our space and all surfaces, eliminating viruses, bacteria, mold, and pollutants. Independent  University studies show 4-log reduction (99.99%) of virus/ bacteria. This system is used in hospitals treating infectious diseases and in the military. We also upgraded to the highest level MERV filter in our A/C ducts. 

Our hygienists use a Purevac high volume evacuation system with a mirror tip by Sirona concurrently with regular suction, removing 90% more aérosol than regular suction alone.

We use the CAS-100 equipment, an exceptional chair-side Aérosole suction to eliminate the aerosols and particles that supplements the already powerful chair-side suctions we have always used.

Digital dental x-rays emit less radiation than traditional film radiographs while providing a high-resolution image for Dr. Philips to use in diagnosis and treatment planning. Digital x-rays, like digital photography, can be enhanced on the screen to see even the most minor changes in bone and tooth structure.

Since we store digital x-rays in a secure digital chart, Dr. Philips can easily compare images side-by-side over time to identify any changes to your oral health that require your attention.

Digital sensors eliminate the need for sharp dental films. These smooth and comfortable devices help us record your teeth structure, bone levels, and to detect issues such as decay or tooth root fracture.

Because your privacy is important to us, we store everything digitally under encrypted lock and key for your privacy and to keep your information safe. We can access this information at any time with the click of a mouse to closely and accurately monitor your dental health and medical history.

Electric handpieces are quieter and produce less vibration than their air-driven counterparts. Not only are electric handpieces accurate, but they also provide a more comfortable and calmer experience for our patients.​

When Dr. Philips explains what she sees inside your mouth, it can be difficult to imagine. With intraoral camera images, however, you can see exactly what your dentist sees. Intraoral cameras are small, pen-sized digital cameras that capture the small details of the teeth and mouth, including cracks, fractures, stains, tartar, gum recession, and cosmetic flaws.

Seeing what we see helps our patients make informed choices for their oral health.

Dr. Helma Philips uses the Kavo CariVu Laser Cavity Detection system in patients' exams. CariVu scans teeth with laser fluoroscopy and detects microscopic breaks (cavities) in the enamel surface of the teeth. These small breaches are caused by bacteria entering the tooth and are so microscopic that they are often missed with a regular exam.

After making the small entry, bacteria quickly erode the underlying layer that is much softer. Dentists, in general, use sharp metal explorers to press on the surfaces to detect the breaks but could not detect them in the earliest form, ending with a larger cavity and filling. With the laser detector, Dr. Helma Philips diagnoses decay before it reaches advanced stages, allowing her to place a smaller filling and preserve your own natural tooth structure.

For patients who feel anxious about dentistry, or who need assistance relaxing in the dental chair, nitrous oxide offers a safe sedation method. Inhaled through a small mask nitrous oxide induces feelings of relaxation and tranquility. Because it leaves the body quickly after treatment, you will feel normal within a few minutes and able to continue your normal activities for the day.