Laser dentistry – Waterlase® Laser
Introducing the latest in needle-free technology for dental procedures.
Waterlase Dentistry uses a patented technology combining laser energy and a spray of water, a process called HydroPhotonics, to perform a wide range of procedures in teeth, gum and bone more comfortably. Heat and vibration are the cause of most of the discomfort associated with the drill. Since the cutting action of the Waterlase does not transmit heat or vibration, many dental procedures can now be performed without anaesthesia.
The Waterlase is able to replace use of the drill in many instances, and the majority of fillings can be performed with little or no anaesthesia. This means less shots and fewer numb lips, reducing patient anxiety and providing a more relaxing dental experience.
Aside from the obvious advantage of minimizing the use of needles, the Waterlase laser also provides pinpoint accuracy, reducing the chances of damaging healthy tissue. It can gently perform soft tissue (gums) procedures with little or no bleeding, so we can now offer many services that previously required referral to a specialist. The laser also prepares your teeth in a way that maximizes bond strength and provides you with longer lasting fillings.
Both Dr Bob Gibbins and Dr Mimi Tam are fully trained in the use of this minimally invasive, cutting-edge technology, and both are Associate Fellows of the World Clinical Laser Institute. We are one of the first dental practices in Queensland, and the only practice in Cairns, to offer the Waterlase laser as part of our service.
Ozone healing technology - HealOzone®
HealOzone remineralizing therapy reduces or eliminates the need to fill teeth. It also reduces the size of fillings. This revolutionary new method exploits the curative and disinfecting effect of Ozone gas. It can be used to entirely cure areas of early decay, without the need for anaesthetics, drilling and filling.
HealOzone can be used on various applications - it has no known risks or side effects. It is used for the treatment of caries/decay and for avoiding root treatment in very deep cavities which almost reach the “nerve”.
The HealOzone is also used for disinfection of the root canal during root treatment and for the sterilisation of tooth surfaces when making fillings, or before inserting crowns or inlays. It can also be used in the treatment of viral diseases for herpes and thrushes, as early as possible after the first signs.
Minimally invasive dentistry - Air Abrasion
Like the Waterlase, Air Abrasion offers “no needle, no drill” dentistry. It is virtually free of discomfort, relying on a fine beam of air and abrasive powder to remove decayed tooth structure. Air Abrasion is much better for your teeth than drilling as it without the risks of micro-fractures inherent in the use of the drill.
In 80% of cases, our dentists can perform cavity preparation without the need for a local anaesthetic injection. This means multiple areas of the mouth can be repaired in the one visit. It is highly precise and accurate just like the Waterlase Laser and can be used for minimally invasive procedures conserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Air Abrasion produces a far superior tooth surface to increase the strength of the bond between white fillings and existing tooth structure.
We use Air Abrasion in conjunction with The Klean-Air Filtration unit to trap the aerosol created by the preparation of tooth structure resulting in a clean safe working environment for both you as the patient and Dental staff.
Air filtration – Klean Air®
We use the Klean-Air in conjunction with the Laser, Air Abrasion and drill for your safety.
The Klean-Air filtration unit totally eliminates any messy overspray from dental procedures. It gives the cleanest environment in which to have you and your family treated without the concern of re-breathing aerosols like biological plume and vaporized mercury.
Diagnosis of the earliest signs of Decay – DIAGNOdent® Laser
The DIAGNOdent laser allows early detection of pathological changes, such as small decayed lesions, early changes in the enamel and fissure caries. It is an extremely reliable diagnostic aid, much more sensitive than the traditional “mirror and probe” technique of diagnosing decay. The DIAGNOdent enables our dentists to detect the earliest signs of decay in you and your child’s teeth. This permits the repair of decay before tooth damage occurs.
Superior stain removal - KaVo Prophyflex®
We recommend a six-monthly professional scale and clean to ensure the lasting health of your teeth and gums. However, a scaling session with your dentist is often insufficient for the removal of deep-seated stains, such as those caused by smoking, caffeine and red wine consumption.
The revolutionary Prophyflex, which combines water and fine powder in a high-pressure slurry, is recommended for patients with heavily stained teeth. It removes all stains quickly, comfortably and far more effectively than a regular scale and polish, leaving you with a far whiter and brighter smile.
Safer X-Rays - Digital X-Ray Technology
Our dentists use digital dental X-Rays to provide even better dental care and more accurate diagnoses. The process of digitally capturing an image is much faster, safer and more comfortable for the patient.
The digital dental X-ray system is more sensitive than film systems, so your exposure to X-rays is cut by as much as 90 percent. The large, colour-enhanced images let you see what your dentist sees, so it's easier for you to understand how your dentist will treat your teeth. Your fees don't include payment for photo chemicals, film, processing or film storage. Used photo chemicals and film are not polluting the environment. Plus dental checkups take less time.
Tooth whitening - ZOOM!® Whitening System
The Zoom! In-Office Whitening System offers whiter teeth in just over an hour. You may have seen it used on the “Extreme Makeover” television series.
Our practice, Future Dental, is one of the only dental clinic’s in Cairns that offers Zoom! Whitening. It is one of the most effective tooth whitening systems available. This procedure uses a combination of lighting and hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth—by six to 10 shades - in one, or sometimes two, brief office visits.
The Zoom! In-Office Whitening System is a revolutionary tooth whitening procedure. It's safe, effective and fast, very fast. In just over an hour, your teeth will be dramatically whiter. Zoom! In-Office Whitening is ideal for anyone looking for immediate results. The convenience of Zoom! in comparison to days of wearing trays and gradual whitening makes it the perfect choice for the busy individual.
The Zoom! Whitening procedure is simple and efficient. It begins with a short preparation to isolate your lips and gums. Your dentist then applies the proprietary Zoom! Whitening Gel, which is activated by a special whitening lamp. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure. You'll be amazed with the results. In most cases, teeth get even whiter the first few days after the procedure.
The Zoom! light activated gel is a scientifically formulated, pH balanced hydrogen peroxide that, when activated by the Zoom! lamp, gently penetrates teeth to remove deep stains and discoloration. With proper care and an occasional touch-up at home, your whiter smile will sparkle for years to come.
