What Has Changed About Going to the Dentist Since I Was a Kid?


going-to-the-dentist

It’s no secret that the world is becoming more advanced. From smartphones to Bluetooth capabilities, technology is everywhere. However, many people think about going to the dentist in the same as when they were kids. It doesn’t matter if you’re 100 or merely 15. Dental visits (with dentists that have kept up with technology!) have changed by leaps and bounds since you were a kid.

See Inside Your Own Mouth

Remember back when the dentist had to tell you what was going on inside of your mouth? That was so 1990. Now, your dentist will pop an intraoral camera inside of your mouth to take a look around, and you’ll get to see it, as well. Your mouth will show up on a TV screen, and so you can see any issues that your dentist finds. This camera also gives dentists a better look inside of your mouth.

Digital Imaging and Advanced X-rays

X-rays have always been a part of going to the dentist, and they probably always will be since it is important to know what is going on under the surface of your teeth and gums. The technology has changed a lot, though. Back in the day, you had to bite down on something and stay incredibly still to get an x-ray. Then, the dentist would tell the x-ray tech that you must have moved, causing the image to blur. You would have to go through it again…and maybe again. What a pain! Now, dentists use technology. These x-rays are fast and emit less radiation. The technician can also ensure that he or she gets a good photo before developing it. That’s a huge time saver. Plus, these x-rays provide crystal-clear pictures that make it easier for dentists to diagnose what’s going on.

3-D Printing for Crowns

You have to admit that 3-D printing is pretty cool. It’s even more amazing when it happens at the dentist’s office. Dentists used to have crowns built at a third-party lab, which took days or weeks and meant a long wait with a partially completed procedure. Now, thanks to 3-D printing software, in-house labs can custom build a perfectly fitting crown in minutes. You can relax (listen to Pandora or watch Netflix while you wait) and leave with your new tooth fully in place in a single appointment.

Dental Anxiety is Put to Rest

Finally, dentists today are much more attuned to the reality of a patient’s dental anxiety. They are compassionate and eager to make each dental visit as stress-free and comfortable as possible. From creating a relaxed and comfortable environment to offering a range of sedation options, dentists that are fully up to speed can offer an entirely different dental experience than the ones that haunt you from childhood.

If you haven’t been to the dentist for a while, it’s time to make an appointment and see all of the changes firsthand. It’s an exciting time to go to the dentist, whether you want to see the inside of your mouth, get a crown from a 3-D printer, or put on the headphones a binge for a while!


Mint Dental professionals deliver state-of-the-art dental care, using leading edge technology. With the help of an entire team, the doctors focus on treatments that meet individual needs and preventive care, with a goal of your healthy smile in mind. Contact us, today!

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