Analog Tech's Enduring Appeal: Fading Dinosaur or Silent Saviour?

Analog technology, often considered a relic of the past in our digital age, continues to have a unique and enduring appeal, demonstrating how it can win in various contexts. While digital technology has made remarkable strides, analog technology maintains its relevance and superiority in several key aspects, reflecting its timeless charm and value.

One area where analog technology prevails is in audio reproduction. Vinyl records, for example, have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Audiophiles and music enthusiasts appreciate the warm, rich sound of analog recordings, which can be challenging to replicate in the digital realm. The tactile experience of handling vinyl, complete with its nostalgic crackles and pops, adds an element of authenticity and engagement that digital music often lacks. Analog audio equipment, such as tube amplifiers and turntables, continues to be cherished for its ability to deliver a unique sonic experience, making it clear that analog technology excels in the realm of music.

Analog technology also thrives in the world of photography. While digital cameras offer convenience and immediate results, analog cameras, such as film-based models, possess a certain artistic quality that digital cannot replicate. Film photography encourages a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to capturing images, as each frame is precious. The tangible process of developing film and creating physical prints connects photographers to their craft in a way that digital photography does not. The resurgence of interest in film photography among both amateur and professional photographers highlights how analog technology maintains its significance in the art of capturing moments.

Another domain where analog technology prevails is in human-machine interfaces. The tactile nature of analog controls, like knobs and sliders, provides a direct and intuitive means of interaction. This is particularly relevant in fields like music production, where analog synthesizers and mixing consoles are preferred by professionals for their responsiveness and fine-grained control. The tactile feedback offered by analog interfaces can enhance the user experience, offering a tangible connection to the task at hand.

In conclusion, analog technology's ability to win in various domains is a testament to its enduring appeal and functionality. While digital technology has undoubtedly revolutionized many aspects of our lives, analog technology's unique qualities, such as its warmth in audio, artistic character in photography, tactile interfaces, continue to ensure its relevance and superiority in specific contexts. Whether it's the nostalgia of vinyl records, the artistry of film photography, or the precision of mechanical watches, analog technology prevails in a way that transcends the digital age, demonstrating that the analog and digital can coexist harmoniously in our modern world.

Ask the Dentist: How do I deal with mouth ulcers while wearing braces?

While orthodontic treatment can improve your smile aesthetics and oral function, oral ulcers can occasionally occur during treatment. This is due to repeated rubbing of the wires and braces (brackets) against your soft tissues, such as the gums, lips, tongue, and inner surfaces of the cheeks.

Oral ulcers typically appear as oval or round lesions with a white or yellowish centre and red border. They can cause discomfort on touch, during eating, speaking and your daily oral routine. They often heal spontaneously within 7-14 days after the cause is addressed.

How to prevent oral ulcers from braces?

• Before leaving the orthodontist’s clinic, always check for any “poky” wires.

• Minimise the intake of hard and sticky foods that can cause breakage of your braces and/or shifting of wires.

• If you are more prone to getting ulcers, you may opt for clear aligners instead of conventional braces, as the former has less risk of abrasions from wires and broken brackets. Discuss with your orthodontist if you’re a suitable candidate for clear aligners.

• Keep hydrated, as a dry mouth increases your risk of developing oral ulcers.

How to manage oral ulcers from braces?

• Apply soft dental wax over any long wire ends or brackets that cause you discomfort. Doing so will prevent further abrasion of your soft tissues. You can request for wax from your orthodontist. 

• Contact your orthodontist to have the source of the trauma removed e.g. a loose bracket, an extended wire, etc.

• Your dentist may prescribe topical medication to reduce the inflammation and pain from the ulcer.

• Minimise the intake of hot or acidic foods and drinks that can further irritate the ulcers.

• Avoid hard or coarse foods that can traumatise the ulcers.

• You may also try home remedies such as gargling with warm salt water.

There may be other causes of ulcers too. Consult your dental specialist if the ulcers persist or worsens.

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Dr Soh Shean Han is an Orthodontist with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her specialty training in Orthodontics from University of Washington-Health Sciences School of Dentistry, USA. She is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer with National University of Singapore and a Visiting Associate Consultant at National University Centre for Oral Health, Singapore. Dr Soh has a special interest in orthodontics and dental public health.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883