By Peg Ashbrock
"In the future who knows where the field of cosmetic dentistry will take us," mused Dr. Jack Hahn, DDS, director of the Cosmetic and Implant Dental Center of Cincinnati. "All this technology we use today came out of the 40 years of the space program. We never dreamed this much would happen; so you never know where technology will take us. The sky's the limit, and we all benefit."
How does the technology discovered in space affect you and I?
Nearly half of all adults surveyed say they would like to make some improvement in the appearance of their smile. Today the art of dentistry uses technology and science from the space program too not only greatly enhance our looks, but to also solve our dentistry problems.
For most people, an appealing smile is an important part of the overall impression a person makes. It's often the first thing we notice about each other. But stained, discolored or dull-looking teeth, chipped, cracked or worn teeth, missing teeth or crooked or crowded teeth can dramatically impact our looks.
Until recently, people were usually stuck with the smile they received at birth. Today there are techniques and advanced materials, some made only here in the tristate, that can make a real difference in the way you smile. There are dental professionals, like those at the Cosmetic and Implant Dental Center of Cincinnati, who bring skill, experience, expertise and commitment to help enhance the smiles of people around the world.
The first step is education
The first step is education, explains Dr. Jack Hahn, DDS. "Education is a key component," he said. "Many patients aren't aware of what can be done to improve their smile, or correct their dental problems. Today we have technology where the patient never has to be without teeth."
Dentists with extensive experience in the expanding field of cosmetic dentistry use both the hard science of space technology and delicate touch of artists to help individuals create the smile they desire. Within the last ten years especially, the wide array of techniques and materials has greatly enhanced the dental experience.
"Materials are stronger, more translucent, more lifelike," he summarized. "We have our own laboratory, the only one in the region, where our technicians can see what the patients look like, can adjust the scanning for the colors and the shape of each individual's face. Through this computer imaging, the patient sees what they are going to look like, without us even touching them."
"It's a benefit to both the patient and the dentist," Dr. Hahn explained.
According to Dr. Hahn, technology, particularly in the form of implants, can take patients where nature didn't. He's a world-wide expert in the field of dental implants; techniques he has designed are in use all over the world. But his role is one-half of the team needed for success.
"It's a partnership between patients and the dental team. We expect our patients to take an active role."
In upcoming articles we'll take a look at dental implants, and specific dental problems and their solutions.
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