15
Oct
Digital Dentistry and How It Is Changing Dental Offices
One term many people are not used to hearing is “digital dentistry.” It is a new practice of dentistry, and as patients learn more about its advantages, it is becoming more popular.
What is digital dentistry?
Digital dentistry is the use of dental technologies in a dental office to provide the most comprehensive, thorough and specific overview of a patient’s mouth and dental needs.
What that means for patients is the ability for dentists to use equipment that goes beyond the typical X-rays and cleanings. It takes a trip to the dentist to a new level, and people are noticing.
What kind of unique technology is used?
Although this list is not comprehensive of all the technologies that can be used in a digital dentistry office, these are the most common.
CAD/CAM
CAD stands for “Computer-assisted design” and CAM for “computer-assisted manufacturing.” When these technologies are used in a digital dentistry office, it can drastically reduce the time it takes to have different procedures for tooth restoration and replacement done.
Typically, when a patient is going to have a tooth replacement, such as dental crowns, veneers or inlays/onlays, it can take a long time to have the device created. A dentist will take measurements and send them to a lab, where the replacement is constructed and sent back to the dentist to install in the patient’s mouth.
With digital dentistry, these technologies and operations are contained in the dentist office where the patient is, so restorative options such as crowns, veneers and inlays/onlays are usually not only measured but created and ready the same day.
Cone Beam CT
The Cone Beam CT is a technology that takes the typical X-ray to a new level. Using this technology, the dentist has the opportunity to take a 3D image of a patient’s mouth. When placing dental implants, having this image before and during the placement can make the installation much easier and more precise.
Diagnodent
Diagnodent is the name of a tool in a digital dentistry office that is used in the early detecting of cavities. Compared to traditional methods of cavity detection, this gives the dentist the opportunity to detect and begin treatment immediately. It also helps in reducing and limiting how much decay occurs, as well as keeping the most optimal structure of the tooth.
Digital X-rays
Everyone who has ever had X-rays taken at a dentist office knows they can be uncomfortable. Digital X-rays not only are more comfortable, but they are also easier for dental professionals and much quicker. These X-rays are made and uploaded directly onto a computer to be viewed. They also reduce the amount of radiation exposure.
Have more questions about digital dentistry? Contact us today!
We know that many people have more questions about how digital dentistry works, and we are always excited to help. Our trained staff will be happy to speak with you and give you a tour of how a digital dentistry office is set up and the specific technologies we have here.
Request an appointment in our Red Bluff office here: https://www.drelloway.com.
Randal Elloway, DABOI, FAAID
Dr. Elloway has a Bachelor’s in Biology from La Sierra University and a DDS from Loma Linda University, and brings over 30 years of dental experience to his practice in Red Bluff. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and Northern California Dental Society. Dr. Elloway is committed to continuous learning and compassionate care, and volunteers internationally to help needy patients.