Technology

Just like the newest computer, it only works as well as the person on the keyboard. Dr. Alfe spends a great deal of time each year researching the latest and greatest technology and then deciding which equipment will help her treat her patients more thoroughly, quickly and predictably. Here’s a list of what innovations she has to offer her patients:

• VELscope is an oral cancer screening system.  For more information on VELscope, click here
• DIAGNOdent uses a laser to painlessly and precisely identify cavities on the surface of your teeth
• Lasers are used to sterilize your gums during hygiene visits, remove diseased gum tissue painlessly and without stitches and can treat cold sores and canker sores. Dr. Alfe also uses her laser to precisely and comfortably sculpt gum tissue when she performs smile makeovers
• Ozone is a “super Oxygen” gas that helps cavities heal themselves, treats tooth sensitivity and cures gum disease without surgery or the drill
• Intra Oral Camera allows you to see what we see (only if you want to!)
• Digital X-rays are faster, more comfortable and safer for you as they reduce your radiation exposure by as much as 60%. They are also more diagnostic as they are magnified on our computer screen, making them much easier to see
• Digital Imaging and Photography help Dr. Alfe diagnose and treatment plan all of her patients
• Chairside Computers let you watch your favorite DVD with personal headphones during treatment. We also use these to review your digital pictures and xrays with you
• Sterilization Center is state of the art and in full view. Our “Lisa” autoclave sterilizer is a hospital grade, Class B sterilizer. It is strong enough to kill the bacteria that cause mad cow disease. We also use a water distiller to ensure that the water running through all our equipment is pure, without contaminants
• Isolite is a soft, flexible dental mouthpiece that suctions, illuminates and protects your tongue, cheek and lip. There is also a built-in bite block that allows you to relax your jaws while keeping you open enough for Dr. Alfe to work in a clean, dry, bright environment.
• TENS (Transcutaneal Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a non-invasive unit used to treat pain in patients suffering from migraines, headaches and/or TMJ dysfunction. It stimulates nerves to decrease acute, chronic, post-operative and osteoarthritic pain.
• TekScan - this technology provides a computer analysis of your bite and is used after extensive reconstructive work to “fine tune” your bite; if you are suffering from migraines or other pain associated with TMJ Disorder, the TekScan device can also reshape or restore your original bite
• JVA: stands for Joint Vibration Analysis and is used by Dr. Alfe to diagnose how healthy (or unhealthy) your TMJs may be, before, during and after treatment.