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.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
If your wisdom teeth have begun to emerge, it is time to speak to your dentist. When these teeth are impacted, they can have some serious effects on your oral health. It is important for you to understand the risks these teeth pose and the steps you should take. Your dentist can walk you through…
When you reach your 20s, wisdom teeth should emerge. This third set of molars come in at the back of the mouth. You will likely have two of these teeth on the top and bottom, though some people have fewer than four. Commonly, dentists recommend getting these removed, and it is not difficult to see…
Many dentists recommend that patients have their wisdom teeth, or the third set of molars, extracted during the teenage years. Wisdom teeth extraction is often recommended for patients whose teeth have been impacted or are causing problems such as crowding, gum inflammation, or pain in the mouth. Extraction can prevent complications for the gums, teeth,…
Full mouth reconstruction can restore the smile's functionality, appearance, and health even when multiple issues are at play. This treatment includes various dental procedures designed to address severe oral health concerns or extensive damage to the teeth, gums, and jaw. Often performed by a general dentist or prosthodontist, it delivers transformative results, helping patients achieve…
If your wisdom teeth have begun to emerge, it is time to speak to your dentist. When these teeth are impacted, they can have some serious effects on your oral health. It is important for you to understand the risks these teeth pose and the steps you should take. Your dentist can walk you through…
When you reach your 20s, wisdom teeth should emerge. This third set of molars come in at the back of the mouth. You will likely have two of these teeth on the top and bottom, though some people have fewer than four. Commonly, dentists recommend getting these removed, and it is not difficult to see…