Because our Siemans x-ray machines are digital (computer image,) they use much less radiation than machines that use x-ray film. Patients often say as they see their x-ray image come up on the computer screen, "Cool!"

There is no waiting, no processing, and you see the x-rays immediately. This means there are fewer retakes. Better diagnosis is possible because the quality is better and more consistent, due to software technology.

We were very amazed and happy to learn from the physicist who evaluated our new machine and our office, that there was no need for any lead shielding in walls for stray (scatter) radiation. This is due to our machines’ extremely high collimation (control of x-ray beam) and low emission.

Our two tray preparation areas incorporate sterilization and disinfection that is hospital grade and above. (Sterilization is the complete destruction of all micro organisms; disinfection is the reduction and maintenance of micro organisms to low levels.) We work at staying ahead of current standards by thinking about possible sources of infection and how to eliminate as many as possible.

Look at either of the two tray areas, one in the center of the office, and one behind the four-chair

area. On the right of each sink you will see the "clean side" where patient trays are prepared with the sterilized instruments needed for each patient. Light handles and controls are covered with disposable protective covers; the dental chairs and countertops are disinfected with a potent chemical solution after each patient. Instruments, air-water tips, and handpieces are sterilized with ethylene oxide. This type of sterilization is found almost exclusively in hospitals. Basically everything that is not disposable can be sterilized in this machine - even our charts, pens, pencils, and stuffed animals. This is wonderful! Our control of micro organisms is extensive.

On the left side of the sink is the "dirty area," where after use a tray is processed before sterilization. First, the trash is thrown away, (look for the square hole in the counter-top,) then the "sharps" (like orthodontic wires,) are placed in the red "sharps" container (which will be sterilized before being properly disposed of.) Then all the instruments are cleaned in the ultrasonic-cleaner/-disinfectant, drained, air-dried and finally bagged, ready for the sterilizer. Please feel free to walk over to these two areas and observe these processes. Additionally, many disposable items are used only once, such as your child’s sun-glasses, which protect their eyes from splatter and light. We are very proud of our systems that are designed to protect our dental team, our patients, and parents.