Advanced Technology

Here at Austin Dental Arts, Dr. Shah and his team are committed to providing you with the most cutting edge dental technology. We understand that overall dental health is about more than just teeth and a conventional dental x-ray image is not always enough for Dr. Shah to make a precise treatment plan. We are proud to have a CBCT in our office that provides three-dimensional images of your mouth, face, and jaw, which includes your teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways, sinuses, and bone. These detailed CBCT scans give Dr. Shah insight on your overall dental health and can help map out the best dental treatment for many complex issues. Some uses for a CBCT scan are to locate tooth or jaw pain, diagnose TMJ, or accurately place dental implants.

Dental radiographs are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. Dr. Shah chooses carefully which and when radiographs are taken. There are many guidelines that we follow. Radiographs enable us to detect cavities in between your teeth, determine bone level, and health of bone. It allows us the ability to detect cavities sooner. We can also examine the roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors, as well as assess damage when trauma occurs.
At Austin Dental Arts, we utilize cutting-edge Digital Imaging Technology. Digital X-rays utilize 90% less radiation than traditional X-rays. In addition, it helps us retrieve valuable diagnostic information. Digital radiographs allow us to see everything we cannot see with our own eyes.

The advantages of digital imaging enables us to not only store patient images, but also enables us to quickly transfer them to appropriate specialists or insurance companies. Digital X-rays offer more precision since we view the image on a computer monitor, instead of holding up a 35mm film up to the light. This capability allows Dr. Shah to better explain your dental condition.

Dental scanners and imaging tools are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. Dr. Shah chooses carefully which and when images are taken. There are many guidelines that we follow. At Austin Dental Arts, we utilize the cutting-edge iTero scanner to examine your teeth. These scans enable us to detect cavities in between your teeth, determine bone level, and health of bone. It allows us the ability to detect cavities sooner. We can also examine the roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors, as well as assess damage when trauma occurs.

The advantages of digital scans over traditional x-rays enable us to not only store patient images, but also enable us to quickly transfer them to appropriate specialists or insurance companies. These scans offer more precision since we view the image on a computer monitor, instead of holding up a 35mm film up to the light. This capability allows Dr. Shah to better explain your dental condition.

If you prefer teeth that are immediately whiter right now or you would rather whiten your teeth over a few nights while you sleep, Dr. Shah has your answer. The ZOOM!® In-Office Whitening System uses proprietary light technology to whiten your teeth an average of eight shades* in a little over an hour while you relax at your dentist’s office. It’s ideal for anyone who wants immediate results. And you may go even lighter with additional applications.

Over-the-counter strips or paint-on gels rarely give patients the results they desire. Get your teeth whiter in a fraction of the time at Austin Dental Arts.

What is The ZOOM!® In-Office Whitening System?

• It is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin.

What can cause tooth discoloration?

• There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening?

• Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective or some as it is for others. Upon an oral exam, Dr. Shah can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

Is tooth whitening becoming more popular?

• Absolutely! A bright, beautiful smile can make a big difference. ZOOM!® In-Office Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.

Is tooth whitening safe?

• Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, it is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Do the results last a long time?

• By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and touch-ups with a take-home gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available through our office.

Is there any difference between over-the-counter tooth whiteners and professional dental products?

• Yes! Consulting Dr. Shah is always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to whiten your teeth just a few shades. Our technology is clinically proven to whiten your teeth eight shades in one hour.

How does the ZOOM!® In-Office Whitening System work?

• The light-activated whitening gel’s active ingredient is hydrogen peroxide. As hydrogen peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged. The light aids in activating the hydrogen peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth.

Is the in-office procedure painful?

• No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch television or listen to music. Many fall asleep.

Are there any side effects?

• Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.

How long is the procedure?

• The entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual whitening session for best results).

Many patients, especially younger patients, are very familiar with the latest technology and are more comfortable with the high tech practice. Computers and TV screens are their primary method of information processing.

Dr. Shah utilizes digital camera technology that helps enhance your understanding of your diagnosis. This camera allows our practice to view clear, precise images of your mouth, teeth and gums, in order for us to accurately make a diagnosis. With clear, defined, enlarged images, you see details that may be missed by standard mirror examinations. This can mean faster diagnosis with less chair-time for you!

Intraoral cameras also enable our practice to save your images in our office computer to provide a permanent record of treatments. These treatments can be printed as for you, other specialists, and your lab or insurance companies.

When you seek care at our office, you are assured that Dr. Shah and his staff utilizes the latest in technology to enhance the quality and fit for your dental care.
Dr. Shah and his team utilize high power, surgical loupes to enhance the precision of patient care.

Dentistry is micro-surgery. Using a similar microscope that an ophthalmologist uses enables us to create dental restorations with incredibility precise fit and finish. You just can’t fulfill that level of care with the naked eye.

Dr. Shah and his team have invested in hospital grade air purifiers located throughout the office and in each of the operatories to ensure the safest air quality.

We are proud to offer our patients the ability to align their teeth with Invisalign clear aligners.