We are constantly striving to provide our patients with the finest dental care available. Our investment in advanced technology means a long-term investment in your future, because state-of-the-art technology invites informed decision-making and enables patients to make wise choices concerning their oral health.  Dr. Graves and Dr. Bolen offer the latest dental technology for your benefit:

Digital Radiography: This form of computerized radiography uses a standard dental x-ray generator as its radiation source.  An intra-oral sensor that is placed in the mouth collects the image.  The color capabilities show our patients more meaningful pictures than black and white, and our flat screen monitors at the end of the chairs allow the patients to view the results. The “zoom” capabilities allow our patients to view localized areas for a better understanding of their diagnosis.  Digital radiography reduces radiation exposure 80–90%.

Intra-Oral Camera: This camera allows us to quickly and easily photograph the inside of your mouth.  The photographic image can be projected onto a color monitor.  Because this magnification allows you to see your mouth more clearly, you are better able to participate in your treatment.

Panoramic:  The Panoramic film provides our doctors with a complete, unobstructed view of the oral cavity and Head.  It provides information at a glance about existing fillings, supporting bone, sources of infection, tumors, cysts, and decay.  The Panorex film shows more of the mouth and surrounding structures, but with less detail of individual teeth, than small films.

Computers:  Our computer system is designed to efficiently manage the most complex information in the dental industry.  Our system handles treatment and payment options.  We make sure our computer system takes care of the technicalities so that you are provided with the most up-to-date information available.

Nitrous Oxide: This gas, used for patient comfort, can be used during restorative or surgical procedures.  Our doctors will be happy to discuss the indications for nitrous oxide use at your request.

Local Anesthesia: This anesthesia is injected into the gum tissue at or near the area to be treated, producing a numbing effect that wears off after the procedure.  Most dental patients find that the use of local anesthesia allows them to experience dental treatment comfortably.

Conscious Sedation:  For patients with a great deal of apprehension or anxiety, an oral medication can be prescribed to achieve a state of relaxation that allows for a comfortable and relaxed appointment.  This does necessitate a responsible adult to be with the patient at all times.

Diagnodent:  The Diagnodent is the latest in caries detection technology.  A small harmless laser is directed into any suspicious areas of the tooth and, with the most accurate detection available, can determine if an area is carious (a cavity) or merely stain or a defect in the enamel.   It can even give us a close approximation as to the depth of penetration of the caries.  This allows us to detect caries sooner than ever and to keep restorations small, resulting in as strong a tooth as possible.  It also helps prevent misdiagnosis of dark areas as cavities when they may not be carious.

Caesy:  The Caesy system is a wonderful dental education program.  Patients can view the latest dental techniques in a step-by-step video format in this interactive system.  Almost any question you have can be reviewed with a staff member or our doctors, so you can have as complete knowledge of your situation and treatment as possible.