Advanced Dentistry offers the latest dental technology combined with thoughtful application

By Laura Briedis

As its name implies, Advanced Dentistry by John Heffernan is defined by its leading-edge dental technology that lets patients smile confidently.

“When I opened my practice this year, I wanted to invest in the most innovative technology so my patients can get advanced care in the same place where they love getting their teeth cleaned,” says Dr. John Heffernan. “We are invested in our patients and want to make our technology accessible to all.”

Located next to Brunswick KiDDS, Advanced Dentistry has formed a multi-specialty group offering a continuum of care from pediatric dentistry to family dentistry.

Dr. Heffernan also handles periodontal care, including gum disease treatment and gum contouring, and he offers both traditional orthodontics and Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners.

And while the brand-new office is beautifully decorated with comfy touches, like oversized leather reclining chairs and TV screens on the ceiling, it is the technology that sets it apart.

Intraoral Scanners
While patients usually don’t get too excited about dental equipment, Dr. Heffernan describes his Trios by 3Shape scanner as a “game-changer,” and says all of his patients love it.

“Whenever possible we use digital impressions. It’s more comfortable for patients and images are immediately scanned in a computer so I can show each patient and discuss treatment options,” says Dr. Heffernan. “Unlike a traditional impression, where the model is thrown away, digital scans are saved in the computer so we can make comparisons over time and see how the bite changes, as well as detect any wear and tear such as tooth chips or even stains since it is a true color scanner.”

“In some instances, we still may need to take traditional impressions along with digital scans, but it would be a smaller, targeted area instead of the whole mouth,” he adds.

Laser Dentistry
Like Brunswick KiDDS founder Dr. Milton Ntragatakis, who pioneered laser dentistry, Dr. Heffernan is also using laser dentistry every day in his office.

“I give every patient who needs a filling an option to use a laser instead of a drill,” says Dr. Heffernan. “When using a laser, it does not contact the tooth, so you don’t feel any vibration or pressure. We have dual-wavelength lasers for hard tissue and soft tissue, so there are many applications, including periodontal therapy for gum disease.”

Tomography Machine
For advanced treatments, Dr. Heffernan uses a Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) machine to take three-dimensional images of the teeth and jaw, along with bones and soft tissue, all in one image.

“This X-ray machine assists us in creating more accurate implant restorations and allows us to do root canals in our office,” he says, noting that it emits an ultra-low dose of radiation. “I also use this technology for orthodontic treatment, as it helps us move teeth more predictably, and it also helps me better evaluate patients who may have airway issues that can lead to snoring and sleep apnea.”

Advanced Dentistry is located at 1832 Pearl Road in Brunswick. For an appointment, call 330-460-3016 or visit AdvancedDentistryBrunswick.com. Most insurances are accepted, and membership plans are available for those without dental insurance.