digital dentistry is the use of digital methods in place of traditional techniques for dental procedures, so digital tools are used in place of electrical or mechanical tools.
From digital radiography to e-scriptions, computerised presentations to CAD/CAM restorations and digital “surgical guides”, to imaging for implant placement, digital technology is changing the face of dentistry. Digital dentistry techniques allow dental procedures to be more accurate and efficient.
Computer-based technology enables dental practices to further enhance patient care. Above all, digital dentistry eliminates manual steps of dental procedures. For this reason, dentists can provide an efficient and more automated treatment process.
Some digital techniques being used by dentists in place of traditional methods include:
Digital x-rays
Digital x-rays in place of traditional radiographs. Instead of using a radiograph to get a complete picture of the teeth, an electronic sensor or phosphor plate is placed inside the mouth, an image is captured and sent to a computer for viewing. This is much faster and more efficient than an x-ray and exposes the patient to less radiation.
diode laser
The diode laser in place of the traditional “explorer” to find cavities. The explorer is the instrument that dentists use to poke the teeth, to check for decay in the grooves of the teeth. Now, dentists are switching to a laser to point out cavities. The higher the amount of decay, the more the tooth will glow when the beam of the laser hits it.
Computer aided design or computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing
Computer aided design and 3D printing have made it more efficient for practitioners to design and manufacture dental restorations. Such restorations may include porcelain crowns, bridges, or veneers.
Computer aided dentistry allows dentists to design, fabricate and insert dental restorations on the same day. Traditionally, a dental laboratory would make the restoration. This process could take up to 3 weeks. The new technology, however, means that the patient can receive the final restoration within a day.
Cone-beam computed tomography imaging (CBCT)
A Cone-beam CT is a rotating X-ray machine which provides a three-dimensional view of teeth and the oral anatomy. Additionally, this imaging technique identifies oral conditions which are not detectable by regular X-ray screenings. A CBCT can also determine the exact position of teeth and their roots.
Benefits of digital dentistry
The development of new technologies and techniques in dentistry offer a variety of advantages for patients. This includes:
Increased Accuracy
One of the primary benefits of digital dentistry is increased accuracy. Digital tools like intraoral scanners and digital X-rays provide dentists with high-resolution images of a patient’s teeth and gums, allowing for more precise diagnoses and treatment planning.
Reduce time and costs
Instead of waiting days for a laboratory to create a restoration, a practitioner can have it ready on the same day. Therefore, the team can eliminate further appointments saving time and money. Furthermore, digital images are immediately available for labs and insurance providers. As well, patients do not have to wait for the images and can easily view them on the screen.
Improved communication
Digital imaging also allows our dentists to collaborate with other specialists and dental laboratories. This even can happen while the patient is still in the practice. Additionally, 3D teeth impressions can be sent off for instant feedback on procedures and planned restorations.
Faster Treatment
With digital dentistry, many dental procedures can be performed more quickly than with traditional methods. For example, digital impressions can be taken in minutes, rather than the messy and time-consuming process of traditional impressions. This allows for more efficient and convenient treatments for patients.
Reduced Manual Errors
Digital workflows significantly reduce manual errors associated with traditional dental processes. With digital records and communication tools, dental professionals can seamlessly collaborate, ensuring accurate information exchange and avoiding errors caused by miscommunication or misplaced records.
Limitations
Limitations on digital dentistry include cost, lack of desire to adapt to new dental technology, and misunderstanding of new technologies.
Conclusion
As digital dentistry continues to adapt and becomes more common, the approach to incorporating the topic of digital dentistry in learning outcomes during dental training must also change. As we enter ‘the digital age of dental education’, future practitioners need to be exposed to new digital procedures in the curriculum and teaching.
Incorporating digital dentistry within dental practices has significantly improved dental care and patient experience. The advancements in digital imaging, diagnostics, treatment planning, and execution, along with its role in enhancing patient education and communication, have revolutionized how dental care is provided.
