It’s safe to say that our lives are becoming increasingly technological. Even in the dental field, digital dentistry is rapidly becoming the future of dental care. It’s a new development that incorporates the use of both digital and computer controlled components.
Like many, you’re probably wondering how something digital can be incorporated into an already developed profession. This article will breakdown the evolution of digital dentistry.
Transitional Period
Believe it or not, there was once a time when the idea of everyone owning a car seemed impossible. Today, the dental industry is experiencing a similar scenario and is transitioning into using digital dentistry technologies.
Like any major change, transition to these practices will take time. Similar to an automobile, the initial capital cost is expensive, but not without a return on investment. Additionally, practitioners will need to learn how to use new technology before adopting it into their clinic. Despite the time and the cost required, experts continue to predict the rise of digital dentistry.
Digital Radiography
Let’s talk about digital dentistry techniques. Shall we begin with a comparison?
Traditional vs Digital X-Rays
Traditional x-ray techniques are similar to an analog camera. There is little control over the image apart from placing the right settings and snapping a shot. Digital radiography, on the other hand, is like the camera that you probably own right now. You can zoom in or out, control the exposure, and collect a greater amount of detail in real-time. Like a digital camera, there is less space needed, because everything can be stored digitally.
Digital Impressions
Digital dentistry has revolutionized the way dental restorations are created. With intraoral cameras and a variety of computer modeling software, digital models of fixtures are created from the impressions captured. To take it one step further, special machines (quite like 3D printers) are used to form the new dentures or implants. Because manual imprinting and handiwork is prone to mistakes, these fixtures fit much more accurately than before.
Improved Customer Service and Care
The success of any business relies on great customer service and care, which is vastly improved by using digital dentistry. Did you know that digital radiography emits 75% less radiation than the traditional x-ray technique? It’s also much faster since the x-rays can be seen immediately and in greater detail. Digital impressions are also faster, resulting in shorter waiting times. Rather than waiting up to two weeks for the traditional impressions, fixtures can be made within one or two days and usually fit perfectly the first time.
By dramatically improving accuracy, time, and comfort, it’s clear that digital dentistry will become the new normal. But in the meantime, remember that you don’t have to wait for the future to experience its advantages—just look for dental clinics with this new technology!
