01
Oct
Digital Dentistry: Ways Digital Technology is Changing Dentistry
Digital dentistry is a product of the current digital revolution. Dentistry is one of the many fields that digital technology is transforming. Some dental clinics still practice traditional methods. Yet, others are starting to catch up. Every aspect of oral care is becoming easier because of digital dentistry. If you want to find out how digital technology is changing the field of dentistry, here are the facts.
Digital X-rays
Dentists use dental X-rays in diagnosing patients all the time. Yet, many patients try to stay away from this diagnostic exam because of the radiation it emits. Digital dentistry makes apprehensions toward dental X-rays go away. Digital dental X-rays reduce radiation absorption by 80-90%. This fact is now encouraging more patients to go to the dentist for their dental exams.
Traditional X-rays take days to process. Producing the results on film is expensive as well. Digital dentistry makes dental X-ray results quicker. Through digital X-rays, the images appear on the computer screen right away. Files can upload to cloud storage. This allows dentists to send the files through email or chat platforms.
Tiny intraoral cameras
Dentists used to examine oral structures without using the handheld, round mirrors. Now, dentists use an intraoral camera to view and even magnify oral structures. A brief introduction explains the intraoral camera to the patient. Then, the dentist inserts a small camera into the patient’s mouth. The dentist shows the patient real-time images of the oral tissues and teeth. That way, patients learn more about their oral health.
Quick restorations
Technologies such as 3D printing can now create restorations right away. The dentist scans the patient’s mouth with an intraoral scanner. Once the images are ready, the dentist can design the custom restorations for the patient. Then a 3D printer creates the restoration. This is possible for inlays, onlays, crowns, and dentures. It also works for implant-supported restorations, veneers, and bridges.
Cancer screening
Digital dentistry also helps dentists detect signs of oral cancer. Some signs are difficult to see with the naked eye. Digital cancer screening tools make the early detection and treatment of oral cancer possible. The patient then gains a better prognosis and quicker recovery. In this case, digital dentistry helps save lives.
Efficient records management
Hard copies of dental records are bulky. Dentists would store them in heavy filing cabinets. Then, they would rummage through one cabinet when the patient arrived. Digital dentistry allows dentists to access patient records in a click or two. Because of this, treatment scheduling and information sharing among clinics are now possible. Workflow in clinics is becoming more efficient.
Digital dentistry is changing the way you look at dental care
Incorporating digital dentistry in dental clinics is changing every aspect of dental care. Appointment scheduling, dental exams, and oral treatments are becoming less taxing. Follow-ups and updates are smoother, and delays are almost non-existent. Finding a dental clinic that has the perks of digital dentistry is possible. Doing so can transform your oral care experience for the better.
Are you considering digital dentistry in the Red Bluff area? Get more information at https://www.drelloway.com.
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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.