Technology

Digital imaging technology is showing up in more and more dental offices, and at MD Smiles, we’re proud to offer our patients state-of-the-art digital x-rays at our Ellicott City dental office.

Our patients appreciate that we use digital x-rays that reduce their radiation exposure by as much as 80 percent compared to traditional film x-rays. Since the images are digital, we can also share them with you on your chairside TV monitor. Within moments, you’ll see high-resolution images that our dentist can manipulate to zoom in or out and adjust contrast and exposure to point out problem areas in detail.

Your digital x-rays are stored on our secure in-house network, so you know they’re safe. With your permission, we can easily share your x-rays with specialists or insurance companies as needed.

We place lead shields over our patients during digital X-Rays as an added precaution against radiation exposure. Lead neck wraps protect the thyroid and lead aprons protect the vital organs in the trunk of the body, including the reproductive organs.

Recent research has revealed that the amount of radiation used in digital X-Rays is so minimal that there is no harm to the organs or the body. Regardless, our continued use of lead shields is a safety measure for the health and wellness of our patients of all ages.

Soft tissue lasers are used for periodontal (gum) surgeries. These lasers are more efficient, cause less discomfort, promote a faster healing time, and decreased risk of infection, providing a better outcome.

Learn more about our Biolase Soft Tissue Laser

The Dexis Cavity Detector helps us find cavities in the earlier stages, which often results in minimal treatment to correct. Decay that begins in the small spaces between your teeth are very difficult for dentists to see using traditional methods.
When the cavity detector finds a cavity, it lights up the area so Dr. Sokolosky can easily isolate the area she needs to treat. When we identify cavities in their earliest stages, we can plan your treatment right away, which can result in less involved procedures and better long-term results.

Traditionally, teeth are polished using a rotating rubber cup and an abrasive paste. Prophy-jet polishing, however, uses an air polishing system with a combination of pressurized water and baking soda to remove more stubborn stains. 

Oral cancer affects thousands of Americans yearly. We use the latest technology to detect changes in oral tissue consistencies and/or lesions. A specialized light is shined into the mouth to detect unhealthy tissue. Healthy tissue looks lighter under the light while spots of bad tissue appear dark. With early detection, cancer may be caught before it has time to spread, potentially saving lives.

These monitors are found next to every patient chair. Patients can watch a movie or TV show. Patients can also view their dental radiographs when speaking to the doctor about the findings for a better understanding of their oral health.

A variety of electronic games are available for patients to play when they visit our office for an appointment.

Our office offers free Wi-Fi for our patients use while visiting our office.