Solutions for digital dentistry

Are you new to digital dentistry?

Get acquainted with this revolutionary approach in our FAQ section below.

What is digital dentistry?
How does digital dentistry enhance patient experiences?
What types of digital dentistry technology are essential for a modern clinic?
What is the workflow like in digital dentistry?
What are the advantages of digital dentistry?
What training is required to effectively implement digital dentistry?
How can digital dentistry be customised to fit different dental clinic needs?
Does digital dentistry work as part of all specialties?
Do dental laboratories and technicians also benefit from digital dentistry?
How cost-effective is digital dentistry compared to traditional methods?

What is digital dentistry?

Digital dentistry is a modern approach to dental care where digital technologies are utilised to enhance precision and efficiency. This innovation marks a significant shift from traditional dental methods, which have primarily relied on manual tools and analogue processes.

In the broadest sense of the term, digital dentistry can be defined as any dental technology or device which includes digital or computer-controlled components alongside mechanical or electrical ones. Digital dentistry embraces a range of technologies, including digital imaging, digital scanning, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).

These advancements enhance dental care by improving precision, efficiency, and personalisation. For instance, digital imaging and scanning offer a clearer and more detailed view of dental structures, while CAD/CAM technology, including 3D printing, is used to design and produce dental restorations with remarkable precision.

Digital dentistry also extends its influence to the administrative side of clinics where patient management systems optimise appointment scheduling, record-keeping, and patient communication. These factors all contribute to more efficient and patient-friendly service.

By integrating a range of digital tools, dental clinics have an opportunity to deliver top-notch services and improve patient experiences. Digital dentistry represents a significant step forward and has paved the way for more accessible, personalised, and effective dental care.

How does digital dentistry enhance patient experiences?

Digital dentistry elevates patient experiences significantly and in many ways. One of the most notable improvements is in comfort and convenience. The use of technologies like intraoral scanners has transformed the process of taking dental impressions. Gone are the days of messy and unpleasant putty – intraoral scanners make appointments quicker and more comfortable, which greatly enhances patient satisfaction.

Another area where digital dentistry shines is in patient communication and visualisation. Digital tools can now be used to show clear and detailed images of the patient’s mouth, which makes explaining conditions and treatment plans easier. Patients can visualise the expected outcomes of procedures (like orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry), leading to better understanding and trust in the treatment process.

Digital imaging technologies like cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provide detailed information on dental structures, significantly enhancing the accuracy of dental diagnoses. Superimposing intraoral scans onto CBCT images allows creating a virtual patient model, with which dental professionals can plan each step of a treatment with precision. In implant procedures, this virtual model ensures implants are placed accurately into the bone without impacting the mandibular canal. Additionally, the virtual patient allows creating custom surgical guides, further improving the accuracy of implant placement, eliminating guesswork, and increasing patient confidence.

Techniques like CAD/CAM technology have revolutionised the creation of dental restorations. Crowns, veneers, dentures, and other prosthetics are designed and manufactured with such accuracy that the fit is usually perfect, minimising the need for adjustments and repeat visits. This precision not only enhances the effectiveness of treatments but also contributes to a more personalised dental care experience.

Moreover, digital dentistry has significantly sped up many dental procedures. Treatments that traditionally required multiple appointments can now be completed even in a single visit. This efficiency not only saves time for the patient but also accelerates their journey to improved oral health.

What types of digital dentistry technology are essential for a modern clinic?

The evolution of digital dentistry has brought forth a suite of technologies fundamental to the modern clinic, each playing a pivotal role in streamlining procedures and elevating patient care.

Intraoral scanners: Replace the traditional method of taking dental impressions, offering increased comfort, speed, and precision.

CAD/CAM systems: Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology allows for the in-house design and production of dental restorations, like crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, bridges and dentures. Dental CAM systems include milling machines and 3D printers.

Digital X-ray imaging equipment: More efficient and exposes patients to much less radiation than traditional X-ray imaging. Digital imaging results can be stored and shared easily and immediately.

Cone beam computed tomography: CBCT imaging units provide three-dimensional images that are crucial for e.g. implant planning, orthodontics, and other procedures that require detailed anatomical information.

Dental 3D printers: Used for creating surgical guides, orthodontic appliances, dental restorations, and dental models in an increasingly efficient way.

Dental software: Dental software: Often divided into two categories: dental practice management software and dental treatment software. The first manages patient records and usually integrates with the latter, dental imaging and CAD/CAM software, which are used for dental diagnosis and treatment planning, to ensure maximally efficient workflows.

What is the workflow like in digital dentistry? 

Digital dentistry has revolutionised workflows by integrating cutting-edge technologies at every step of the treatment process. From initial consultation to final adjustments, here’s general overview of how digital tools can be used to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes.

Patient consultation and diagnostics: The digital dentistry workflow begins with patient consultation, where digital tools like intraoral scanners and imaging equipment are used to support diagnostics and treatment planning.

Treatment planning: These days, various specialised software are available for detailed and customised treatment planning. This could involve simulating expected results or planning procedures with precision.

Design and manufacturing: For restorative treatments, CAD/CAM technology comes into play. Restorations, such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, can be designed using software and then manufactured in-house with milling units or 3D printers. For implant treatments, dental software aids in planning the optimal position of the implant and designing a custom surgical guide, which can also be 3D printed. 

Procedure execution: With precise planning and custom-designed restorations and appliances ready, the next step is the precise execution of the treatment. Software tools are used to ensure the high accuracy of procedures.

Follow-up and adjustment: Digital tools also aid in post-procedure assessments and adjustments. Digital scans can be used to check the fit of restorations and to immediately make necessary adjustments.

What are the advantages of digital dentistry?

Digital dentistry represents a significant leap forward in dental care, offering a myriad of benefits that enhance treatment outcomes, patient satisfaction, and clinic operations. Below are the key advantages that underscore the transformative impact of digital technologies in dentistry.

Enhanced precision and accuracy: Digital technologies provide highly detailed images and accurate measurements for improving diagnostics and treatment planning. This precision is especially crucial in e.g. implant placements and orthodontics.

Improved efficiency: Digital workflows – from scanning to diagnoses and analyses to treatment planning and design to manufacturing – are typically much easier and faster than traditional methods. Technologies like CAD/CAM allow for same-day dental restorations and reduce the number of patient visits needed.

Better patient experiences: Digital dentistry often translates to less invasive procedures. For example, intraoral scanners are faster and more comfortable for patients, as they eliminate the need for traditional dental impressions.

Customisation of treatments: Digital tools enable highly personalised treatment plans. Dental restorations and orthodontic devices made using CAD/CAM technology fit more accurately and work more effectively.

Treatment simulations: Various digital simulation tools, like smile design and orthodontic treatment simulation software, help motivate patients by showcasing the potential outcomes of dental treatments. These visual aids not only clarify expected results but also enhance patient confidence and engagement with the treatment plan.

Improved record keeping and data management: Digital records are easier to store, organise, and retrieve. This efficiency in data management leads to better continuity of care and easier collaboration among dental professionals.

New treatment opportunities: Digital dentistry opens up new possibilities in dental care, such as offering clear aligner treatments based on intraoral scans. This technology provides patients with a more discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces, making orthodontic care more accessible and tailored to individual needs.

Eco-friendliness and sustainability: Digital dentistry reduces the need for disposable materials used in traditional impressions and X-rays and decreases the number of transfers between the dental clinic and laboratory, contributing to a more environmentally friendly practice. Additionally, digital imaging technology helps lower patient radiation doses, enhancing radiation hygiene and overall patient safety.

What training is required to effectively implement digital dentistry?

Adopting digital dentistry is straightforward with training that is tailored to be user-friendly and practical. Most digital dental equipment (such as intraoral scanners and CAD/CAM systems) are designed for intuitive use. The learning curve for these technologies is generally short, and comprehensive training sessions will help to bring staff up to speed quickly.

In terms of data management, modern dental software is user-centric, making it easy to organise and access digital records. The integration of digital methods into existing clinic workflows is seamless, enhancing rather than complicating existing processes.

Overall, the transition to digital dentistry is designed to be smooth, with training and resources readily available to ensure dental professionals can easily adapt and make the most of these advanced tools.

How can digital dentistry be customised to fit different dental clinic needs?

Digital dentistry's strength lies in its adaptability, catering to the unique requirements of diverse dental clinics. Clinics of all sizes and specialisations can tailor their use of digital tools to enhance efficiency and patient care.

Smaller clinics might prioritise compact and versatile tools like intraoral imaging devices, which offer detailed imaging and ease of use in constrained spaces. These tools are essential for precise diagnostics and patient comfort.

In turn, larger clinics with higher patient counts can benefit from more comprehensive digital solutions. These include CBCT imaging units for advanced diagnostics and milling units or 3D printers for manufacturing restorations and in-house.

Clinics can choose software solutions tailored to their specific workflows – whether it's for processing data, planning treatments, or maintaining records. This adaptability is crucial for clinics focused on different dental disciplines, as it ensures that the software aligns with their unique operational requirements.

Furthermore, the modular nature of digital dentistry allows for gradual integration. Clinics can start with essential tools and expand as their needs grow, making the transition to digital methods smooth and manageable. This adaptability extends to treatment protocols as well, which enables clinics to provide personalised and precise care and enhances patient outcomes.

Does digital dentistry work as part of all specialties?

Digital dentistry is remarkably versatile and finds application across various dental specialties. Its tools and technologies are not confined to general dentistry alone but extend to various specialised fields, enhancing the scope and quality of treatments offered.

For instance, digital technology plays a pivotal role in orthodontics where tools like CBCT units and intraoral scanners are used to simulate orthodontic treatments as well as plan and create clear aligners. Endodontics benefits from advanced imaging techniques that aid in more accurate root canal treatments, while periodontics utilises digital imaging for the detailed examination of gum diseases. In turn, restorations, dentures and implants are created with CAD/CAM technology in prosthodontics.

Even in paediatric dentistry and oral surgery, digital tools enhance patient care through better diagnoses and treatment planning. The use of digital imaging reduces patient doses, which is particularly beneficial for younger and other more vulnerable patients.

In essence, digital dentistry is a comprehensive approach that complements and elevates all dental specialties. By providing more accurate diagnostics, enhanced treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes, digital dentistry is a valuable asset across the spectrum of dental care.

Do dental laboratories and technicians also benefit from digital dentistry?

In addition to dental clinics, digital dentistry is transforming the work of dental technicians and laboratories. Digital tools like CAD/CAM systems and 3D printing enable technicians to design and manufacture restorations more accurately and efficiently while digital communication channels optimise coordination with clinics.

Digital communication channels especially streamline the exchange of information between technicians and dentists, enabling real-time adjustments and improvements. Issues like incorrect fit or discoloration can be resolved without restarting the entire process, as digital files can be easily modified to produce new restorations.

Overall, digital dentistry reduces the manual, labor-intensive aspects of traditional techniques, allowing technicians to focus more on the artistry and customisation of their work. This leads to faster turnaround times and better outcomes. Below is an overview of key digital tools streamlining the work of dental technicians and labs.

CAD/CAM: Technicians can use computer-aided design and manufacturing software to create highly precise dental restorations like implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures.

3D printing: 3D printers allow technicians to produce surgical guides, night guards, indirect bonding trays, orthodontic models and even custom restorations with greater accuracy and speed. This technology also enables the creation of dental models from digital scan data, allowing restorations or other work on the model to be finished using conventional techniques.

Digital impressions: Receiving intraoral scans directly from dental clinics eliminates the need for physical impressions, reducing errors and improving turnaround times.

Desktop scanners: Physical models and plaster cast impressions can be scanned and converted into digital files for streamlined digital design and production, enabling dental labs to work seamlessly with both digital and traditional impressions.

Virtual wax-ups: Digital tools allow dental technicians to create and modify virtual wax-ups digitally before final production.

Virtual articulator: Instead of manufacturing a physical dental wax-up and mounting it onto an articulator, occlusion studies can now be performed entirely digitally with a virtual articulator, saving time and improving accuracy.

Digital collaboration: Cloud-based platforms enable technicians to collaborate with dentists in real time, facilitating communication and immediate adjustments to treatment plans.

Orthodontic appliances: Digital technologies facilitate the design and production of customised orthodontic appliances, such as clear aligners, retainers, and splints.

Milling units: In-house milling units can be used to produce restorations from digital designs, ensuring quick and accurate fabrication of prosthetics and dental components like crowns, bridges, dentures, hybrid abutments, and bite splints.

Digital workflow integration: Seamless integration of design, manufacturing, and communication tools enhances the overall workflow, allowing technicians to manage multiple aspects of production more efficiently.

Case documentation: Digital technologies offer the ability to document and archive cases easily, maintaining accurate records of design iterations and treatment plans for future reference or reproduction. Digital models are also immune to deterioration or damage in storage.

How cost-effective is digital dentistry
compared to traditional methods?

At first glance, digital dentistry can represent a substantial initial investment compared to traditional methods. The costs associated with purchasing and implementing advanced digital equipment, such as CBCT units and CAD/CAM systems, might seem daunting. However, the long-term savings and efficiencies provided by digital dentistry often outweigh these initial costs.

Digital dentistry enhances operational efficiency, allowing for more treatments in fewer appointments. This efficiency not only saves time but also reduces the costs linked to patient management and clinic operations. For example, the ability to produce dental restorations on the same day eliminates the need for multiple appointments and temporary solutions, offering significant savings to both the clinic and patients. Additionally, reduced expenses on dental laboratory services and shipping contribute to a quick return on investment.

Furthermore, the precision of digital procedures minimises the likelihood of errors and the need for redoing work, saving on materials and labour over time. Digital record-keeping and patient management systems streamline administrative processes, cutting down on the costs and space required for storing physical records.

In essence, while digital dentistry requires an upfront investment, its cost-effectiveness becomes apparent through improved efficiency, reduced waste, and streamlined clinic operations. Over time, these factors contribute to substantial financial benefits, making digital dentistry a worthwhile investment for modern dental practices.