North Texas Dentistry Volume 6 Issue 5 North Texas Dentistry Volume 6 Issue 5 | Page 7

modern personality. As Dr. Cabal explains, “I like the feel of an Apple store because it speaks to the appealing contemporary esthetic of the product. The same is true of our practice – and the new office reflects that.” And it isn’t just window dressing – Dr. Cabal has brought stateof-the-art technology to his patients to ensure the best possible results. “Building this office was an opportunity to maximize convenience, efficiency, and exceptional results using proven technology. We designed our space for work to flow effortlessly and put patients at ease. We did a lot of research into our options and approached the acquisition of each new piece of equipment thoughtfully to ensure that our choices directly supported our mission to serve patients.” One bit of technology Dr. Cabal decided was a necessity was the i-CAT ConeBeam CT scanner for collecting 3D data. “An in-office CT scan using cone beam technology is an invaluable treatment planning tool and is convenient for patients. At our office, we use the i-CAT system, which greatly enhances diagnostic accuracy. The scanner captures accurate 3D views to analyze the teeth, roots, TMJ, airway, and sinuses without magnification or distortion. This technology renders a detailed 3D scan in as little as 4.8 seconds while the patient is seated comfortably. Since it is available at our office, hospital referrals are unnecessary. The i-CAT machine emits significantly less radiation than a medical CT scan, and costs patients less than a traditional scan.” Photo by Ray Bryant, Bryant Studios The 3D data from the ConeBeam CT Scan aids in treatment plan- ning for implant planning, third molar extractions, impactions, TMJ therapy, and supernumeraries. Digital imaging technology has advanced orthodontics to an unprecedented position of capability and precision, and enhances convenience and comfort for the patient. Dr. Cabal’s practice relies on iTero digital scanners to streamline the process of making impressions. Before a patient receives Invisalign orthodontic aligners or an oral splint, a specialized wand is used to take a digital impression of the patient’s teeth with lasers that map the teeth in three dimensions. The procedure is comfortable and convenient, since it does not involve messy powder or unpleasant impression material to replicate the teeth and gums. The iTero digital scanning system also delivers a better result and avoids re-takes by eliminating the risk of impression material shrinkage, plaster expansion, or accidental chipping of the resulting model. Dr. Cabal points out, “We can use the iTero images to create custom-made Invisalign aligners or craft oral splints to address TMJ disorder. Using iTero reduces the need for further adjustments of oral appliances and ensures a more comfortable fit.” Another particularly helpful addition to the new office is the onsite dental laboratory, which enables Dr. Cabal’s team to create long-lasting clear Essix retainers in about an hour and make any necessary adjustments immediately. Lost or damaged retainers can be replaced quickly and conveniently, minimizing the risk of unwanted tooth movement that sometimes occurs when the retainer is not used as instructed. Dr. Cabal provides each patient The team at Lake Country Orthodontics is committed to providing responsive, caring service and creating a consistently great patient experience. NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY | www.northtexasdentistry.com 7