Technology

At Mark E. Lawton DDS in Houston, TX, we are committed to providing the highest quality dental care by incorporating advanced technology into our practice. Dr. Mark E. Lawton utilizes state-of-the-art dental technology in Houston, TX, to enhance diagnostics, improve treatment outcomes, and ensure a comfortable and efficient experience for all patients. Below, you can find out more about the main technologies we utilize in our practice.

Intraoral Cameras in Houston, TX

An intraoral camera is a small, handheld device equipped with a camera that captures high-resolution images of the inside of your mouth. It is designed to provide a detailed view of your teeth, gums, and other oral structures. The camera is inserted into your mouth, and the images are displayed on a monitor in real-time.

The Benefits of Intraoral Cameras

• Enhanced Visualization: Intraoral cameras offer a magnified view of your oral health, allowing Dr. Lawton to see and diagnose issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. This enhanced visualization helps in detecting problems at an early stage.
• Improved Communication: By displaying you the images on a monitor, intraoral cameras enable clear and effective communication between you and Dr. Lawton. You can see exactly what the doctor is discussing, which helps in understanding your diagnosis and treatment options.
• Accurate Documentation: Intraoral cameras provide high-quality images that can be used for documentation and monitoring the progression of dental conditions. These images are valuable for tracking changes over time and ensuring that your treatment is on the right path.

How They Work

During your visit, our dentist in Houston, TX, will gently place the intraoral camera in your mouth to capture detailed images. The camera is equipped with a light source that illuminates your teeth and gums, providing clear and crisp visuals. The images will be displayed on a nearby monitor, allowing you to view them alongside Dr. Lawton as he explains your dental health.

Digital X-Rays in Houston, TX

Digital X-rays are a modern form of radiography that uses electronic sensors to capture images of your teeth and jawbone. Unlike traditional X-rays that use film, digital X-rays produce instant digital images that can be viewed on a computer screen. They are very popular in diagnosing TMJ disorders and in tooth extarctions and root canals.

The Benefits of Digital X-Rays

• Reduced Radiation Exposure: Digital X-rays require significantly less radiation compared to traditional X-rays. This reduction in radiation exposure helps to protect your health while still providing accurate diagnostic information.
• Faster Results: With digital X-rays, images are available almost immediately, allowing Dr. Lawton to quickly assess your dental health and allowing you to make informed decisions about your treatment.
• Enhanced Image Quality: Digital X-rays produce high-resolution images with greater detail and clarity. This improved image quality helps in detecting dental issues with greater precision.
• Convenience and Efficiency: Digital X-ray images can be easily stored and retrieved electronically. This convenience allows for efficient record-keeping and easy access to your dental history.

How They Work

During the X-ray procedure, you will be positioned in front of a digital sensor, and a small device will be placed in your mouth to capture the X-ray images. The digital sensor transmits the images to a computer, where they are processed and displayed on a monitor. Dr. Lawton will review the images and discuss any findings with you.

Digital Impressions in Houston, TX 

A digital impression system is a technology that creates precise, three-dimensional digital impressions of your teeth and oral structures. Unlike traditional molds that use impression material, digital impressions are captured using a specialized scanning device.

The Benefits of Digital Impressions

• Comfort and Convenience: Digital impressions eliminate the need for traditional impression trays and materials, which can be uncomfortable and messy. The scanning process is quick and non-invasive, enhancing your comfort during the procedure.
• High Accuracy: Digital impression systems provide highly accurate and detailed impressions, which are crucial for creating precise dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and veneers.
• Faster Turnaround: The digital impressions are processed and transmitted to the dental laboratory in real time, reducing the turnaround time for creating dental restorations. This means you can receive your final restoration more quickly.
• Improved Fit and Function: The accuracy of digital impressions ensures that your dental restorations fit perfectly and function optimally, resulting in better overall outcomes.

How They Work

During the digital impression procedure, Dr. Lawton will use a handheld scanner to capture images of your teeth and oral structures. The scanner emits a safe, non-invasive light that creates a detailed 3D model of your mouth. The digital impression will then be reviewed and used to design and fabricate your dental restoration. Call us to learn more.

3D Cone Beam Imaging in Houston, TX

3D cone beam imaging is an advanced imaging technology that provides a three-dimensional view of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. Unlike traditional X-rays, which offer a two-dimensional view, cone beam imaging creates detailed 3D images that allow for a comprehensive assessment of your oral anatomy.

The Benefits of 3D Cone Beam Imaging

• Detailed Visualization: 3D cone beam imaging provides highly detailed and accurate images of your oral structures, allowing Dr. Lawton to diagnose complex conditions and plan treatments with greater precision.
• Enhanced Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: The 3D images enable better visualization of underlying structures, such as the jawbone and sinuses. This enhanced view helps in planning complex procedures, such as dental implants.
• Reduced Need for Multiple X-Rays: With 3D cone beam imaging, multiple types of traditional X-rays can be replaced by a single scan, reducing the number of radiographic procedures needed.
• Improved Patient Education: The 3D images can be used to clearly explain your diagnosis and treatment options. Seeing the detailed images helps patients understand their condition and the proposed treatment plan.

How It Works

During a 3D cone beam imaging scan, you will be positioned in a specialized machine that captures a series of X-ray images from different angles. The machine will rotate around your head, and the images will be compiled to create a detailed 3D model of your oral structures. Dr. Lawton will review the images and discuss the findings with you. 

Conclusion

At Mark E. Lawton DDS, we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of dental care by incorporating advanced technology into our practice. From intraoral cameras and digital X-rays to digital impression systems and 3D cone beam imaging, these technologies enhance our ability to diagnose, treat, and educate our patients effectively.

Experience exceptional dental care with Dr. Mark E. Lawton in Houston! At our office, located at 13236 Northwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77040, we offer a range of services to meet your dental needs. Call us today at (281) 447-2186 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile.