What is Digital Dentistry?
Digital dentistry is an innovative alternative to the mechanical methods of dentistry. Although some may label it as ‘Dentistry of the Future’, it has technically been around since 1973 when French professor François Duret invented dental CAD/CAM. Some might be skeptical about trying out new methods, however, digital dentistry is quite popular where it has been adopted. In the Netherlands, for example, up to 93% of dentists use some form of digital technology inside and outside their offices, according to a study published in 2015.
Technologies
X-rays and the internet are more familiar digital tools utilized by dentists, but there are several other great and innovative technologies that may be used. They include but are not limited to:
CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design or Manufacturing) – This technology enables dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, inlays and onlays to be fabricated using computerized milling technology which can be done same-day rather than taking multiple visits to complete.
Cone Beam CT – Provides dentists with a quick 3D image of your oral anatomy, which helps ensure greater success with implants and other procedures.
Diagnodent – Detects cavities earlier and prevents more time for teeth to decay.
Intra-Oral Camera – may be used instead of mirrors to get a much better picture and/or angle of your teeth.
Dental Lasers – Used in surgery instead of invasive tools, dental lasers are more precise, cause less pain and allow a better healing process.
Optical Scanners – Create 3D oral impressions, avoiding having to put bulky material in your mouth.
TekScan (T-Scan) – A computer that uses an ultra-thin electronic sensor to digitally evaluate a patient’s bite relationships.
The Wand – As opposed to the typical syringe which is injected with a hand, the wand slowly administers anesthesia at a perfect steady rate which makes the injection more comfortable.
Why Choose Digital Dentistry?
Time
Procedures that once took two or three visits to complete can now be completed in one office visit! The modern digital technology has almost eliminated paper charts, allowing for ease of booking and managing appointments and viewing past patients history. Non-emergency appointments can be completed with an online form on our website, 24-hours a day!
Cost
Digital dentistry saves not only time but the costs of materials and having to use an outside lab, and that ultimately saves you money! And lasers can discover dental decay that the natural eye could miss, which means a small cavity does not become an expensive issue later down the road!
Comfort
A majority of technologies used are not nearly as invasive or uncomfortable as older methods such as biting down on awkward materials or holding your mouth open until your jaw hurts! Drilling, scraping and structures would be obsolete!
Better Treatment
By using this technology, there is a lower possibility of any issues being missed and popping up later after it’s too late only to fix the problem.
Still have questions about Digital Dentistry?
If you are still unsure about digital dentistry or have more questions, never hesitate to contact our office. Our staff is trained and informed on how to explain this option of dentistry, and can help in expounding on how it can save you time and help your oral health more than the typical dentist! To make an appointment, click here or call 440-354-0705.
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