Although many individuals associate visits to the dentist with discomfort and uncertainty, advancements in digital dentistry have taken considerable strides toward improving patient comfort, treatment time, and data accuracy.
So, what is digital dentistry? In short, this growing branch of the dental industry involves any digital or computer-based technology that dentists can use to examine, diagnose, and treat their patients.
Digital dentistry is growing in popularity because of its speed, comfort, flexibility. Instead of mailing physical X-rays or bite impressions, dentists can share data immediately over the internet. Many digital treatments are fast and accurate while also being more comfortable for the patient.
Many patients are curious to learn what types of digital dentistry they might encounter at their next checkup. Here are just a few ways that technology is affecting modern dentistry.
X-rays have long been a part of proper oral care. Dentists need them to track movements in the mouth, spot previous fillings, and make treatment decisions. However, traditional X-rays can be slow and expensive. If the dentist needs to share data with an orthodontist or dental lab, it can be slow and inconvenient to send physical images.
Digital radiology, on the other hand, is quick and comfortable for the patient. The data is more accurate, and dentists can magnify the images as needed. According to the American Dental Association, digital radiology also exposes patients to less radiation than traditional X-ray film.
When it comes to taking molds and bite impressions, digital dentistry prevents the need for goopy, uncomfortable molds. Instead of struggling to fit the mold into the mouth and holding it there for a long time, dentists with the right technology can scan patients' mouths using a handheld wand. This optical scanner captures a live video of the patient’s mouth, which instantly creates a full-color, 3D model.
After digitally capturing an impression, dentists can continue to employ digital dentistry to design prostheses for their patients. This is incredibly useful for creating various restorative treatments, including crowns, veneers, bridges, and dentures. After designing the dental prosthesis, the dentist can then use the template to create the prosthesis through milling or 3D printing.
When patients are considering orthodontic treatment, such as braces, dentists can use digital design software to help.
Once they have a digital scan of the patient’s mouth, the dentist can use that information to create a treatment plan. Certain smile design software comes with a patient-friendly interface, so patients can preview what the result should look like
All this digital technology is available now, but it will take a while for it to become commonplace. Some dentists are slower than others when it comes to learning new technology and transitioning their equipment.
When it comes to choosing a dentist as a patient, you do not need to compromise your comfort. Digital dentistry can be faster, more accurate, and more comfortable. Schedule your next appointment with the team at Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc for digital dentistry services that are right for you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drelloway.com or call Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc at (530) 527-6777 for an appointment in our Red Bluff office.
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