Gone are the days when dental clinics looked like drab spaces with oversized and ancient-looking machines. Thanks to new technology and innovations in the field of dentistry, dental practices are constantly changing and evolving to better satisfy the needs of patients.
Here are a few different technologies that are shaping the future of dentistry and allow dental professionals to deliver world-class service to patients:
1- Digital Orthodontics
The digital revolution has transformed the way dental clinics serve their patient base. Many dental practices are equipped with state-of-the-art dental tech, including intra-oral scanners and digital aligner orthodontics. Creating custom oral appliances is more efficient and easier thanks to this top-of-the-line equipment.
2- Teledentistry
The coronavirus pandemic, which began sometime in the first quarter of 2020, has compelled people to stay at home. This meant that employees had to work remotely. Children also had to adapt to online schooling and temporarily forgo traditional classroom setup.
The pandemic has also played a role in transforming the world of dentistry. Those who are reluctant to visit their dentist in person for whatever reason can take advantage of teledentistry services.
Teledentistry offers easier access to oral care. It enables patients to consult with otherwise unavailable dental professionals. The process involves starting a video chat with a dentist and discussing possible oral problems.
This technology is incredibly convenient. Teledentistry is ideal for individuals residing in rural locations who don’t always have access to a dentist.
3- Regenerative Dentistry
People’s teeth fall off with age. When this happens, they pay a visit to a dental practice and have the missing teeth replaced with prostheses. The field of regenerative dentistry, however, challenges this preconceived notion with developments that can result in biological therapy for damaged teeth and self-healing teeth.
Researchers from Harvard University and the University of Nottingham developed dental fillings that enable teeth to heal themselves. These oral fillings stimulate stem cells to promote the growth of dentine, a layer of material immediately underneath the tooth enamel. This effectively allows patients to regrow teeth damaged due to disease. Teeth regeneration may potentially get rid of the need for root canals.
4- Diode Lasers
When a dentist or oral hygienist wants to search for oral caries or cavities, they will poke around your mouth with an exploration tool. Although this has been a regular process in oral check-ups, lasers can now do this job more easily, quickly and effectively.
A diode laser can eliminate discomfort and improve efficiency in various dental procedures, including getting rid of tumors, reducing tooth sensitivity and filling cavities. Dentists can use this type of laser to check for further decay. Once they have the info on your teeth, they can recommend fillings without needing to “explore” your mouth.
5- Teeth Whitening with LED Lights
Thanks to advancements in technology, patients looking to improve the appearance of their pearly whites can undergo an LED teeth whitening procedure. This technology allows individuals to enjoy quick results. It can significantly change a patient’s smile and make their teeth several shades whiter.
LED whitening eliminates the need to undergo potentially inconsistent and painful laser whitening. This revolutionary process also removes the need to use whitening kits with hydrogen peroxide. You can expect at-home and professional LED whitening to rise in the coming years as the results speak for themselves.
6- Robotics
The health care industry has used robotics in various surgeries to assist and improve the knowledge and acumen of physicians. These robots can deliver better health care experiences and improved surgical results.
Dental professionals can use robotics in oral implant procedures. Although dental implants have a high success rate, they have inherent risks much like other surgical procedures. Implant failure and nerve damage can happen – and this is where robots and navigational surgery technology can help. Robotics can help improve the already high success rate and assist the surgeon during the implant procedure with enhanced consistency and precision.
7- Smart Toothbrush
Many live in smart homes and use connected smart devices. Why not consider using smart technology to improve your teeth and gums? At first glance, the idea of letting a sensor study your tooth brushing behavior might feel a bit weird. When you use a smart toothbrush, however, you can make maintaining your oral health and preventing plaque easier for you.
The market offers smart electric brushes that offer real-time feedback via a companion app about your teeth and your brushing process. You’ll get tips on how to better clean your mouth, as well as warnings if you’re applying too much pressure while you’re brushing.
The field of dentistry continues to evolve at a fast rate. As a patient, you’ll want to find and choose a dental practice that you can trust to provide the best care – and offering advanced dental technology is part of that process. As for dental professionals, they should follow the latest innovations, so that they can deliver quality oral care to their valued patients.
