In recent years, digital technology has completely changed the way people approach dentistry. As part of an industry, digital technology increases workflow, innovates operative techniques and restorative materials, and offers undeniable advantages in clinics. Today’s dental practices rely on digital technology more than ever and can keep up with the latest treatment options for patients. More importantly, patients are now able to experience higher quality care.
How Digital Technology Affects Dentistry Today
Digital technology has more of an influence on our overall well-being, and in dental offices, it enhances the way dentists deliver care to their patients. Today’s computers help dentists, and dental assistants document patient information and medical history for easy submission to dental insurance agencies for treatments. Devices like smartphones allow patients to better communicate with their dentists and medical providers about their treatment plans and costs and easily schedule dental checkups without spending extra time or money to do so.
However, at the office, digital technology is even more crucial for today’s practices. Devices such as 3D printers help dentists view an affected tooth’s inside and outer structures without having to wait for communication with other medical providers. Cone beam computerized technology helps dentists view the inner roots and pulp of the affected tooth to more accurately diagnose complex dental issues, and intraoral scanning devices help provide images without interfering with the patient’s oral cavities, especially for those sensitive to dental appointments. Through digital technology, dentists can clearly point out areas of note and provide an inside look into their patient’s dental health and can use this technology to plan out restorations.
How Digital Technology Helps Patients Today
Devices like intraoral scanners, 3D printers, cone bean technology, and irrigation systems all improve the way that patients receive treatment at the dentist. Because of the advancements dentistry has made within the last few decades; patients are able to experience a variety of benefits, including:
- Digitally-Generated Outcomes: Scanners and many other imaging devices can provide patients with digitally-generated outcomes that assist in their diagnosis and more accurate results when it comes to patients seeking cosmetic treatment.
- Better Visualization Techniques: Patients can more easily speak with their dentists about their dental goals and aspirations when it comes to their dental health.
- Multiple Treatment Options: Through these means, dentists are able to provide more treatment options to their patients. Dentists can point out problem areas of interest and discuss a variety of approaches for their patients through digital means.
- More Informed Patients: Overall, digital technology can be best used as an education device, allowing patients to understand the costs, predicted results, and long-term outcomes of their treatments.
Innovation is considered one of the best ways medical care can move forward. As newer systems of treatment and diagnosis are being developed, dentists can keep up with the most current methods to help patients make better decisions about their care. To understand and learn more about the latest dental technologies and treatment options out there, speak with your dentist during your appointment for more information.