What is digital dentistry

Okay, so I keep hearing the term "digital dentistry" thrown around at conferences and even some patients have asked me about it. I’m a general dentist and I’m comfortable with traditional methods, but I’m starting to feel like I’m missing something. Is it just a fancy way of saying we use computers more? What specific technologies are we talking about? I’m thinking about things like CEREC, intraoral scanners, maybe even 3D printing.

Also, is it really better than traditional dentistry, and if so, in what ways? Faster? More accurate? More comfortable for the patient? And is it worth the investment, considering the equipment is probably expensive? I’m trying to figure out if I should start incorporating digital dentistry into my practice or if it’s just a passing trend. I’d really appreciate a clear explanation of what it encompasses and the potential benefits. Thanks!

Answer

Digital dentistry encompasses the use of digital technologies and computer-aided processes in dental practices to enhance efficiency, precision, and patient care. It replaces or augments traditional manual and mechanical methods with computer-based or digitally-controlled equipment. It covers a wide spectrum of applications, including diagnostics, treatment planning, restorative procedures, implant dentistry, orthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Key Areas and Technologies in Digital Dentistry:

• Digital Imaging: This is a fundamental aspect of digital dentistry and involves capturing images of the oral structures using various technologies.

  • Digital Radiography: Replaces traditional X-ray films with digital sensors, resulting in instant image acquisition, reduced radiation exposure, and easier image storage and manipulation. Different types include:
    • Intraoral Radiography: Captures detailed images of individual teeth and surrounding bone. Examples include periapical, bitewing, and occlusal radiographs.
    • Panoramic Radiography (OPG): Provides a broad view of the entire dentition, jawbones, temporomandibular joints (TMJs), and sinuses.
    • Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): A 3D imaging technique that provides detailed anatomical information about the teeth, bone, and surrounding structures. It’s particularly useful for implant planning, endodontic treatment, and diagnosing complex conditions.
  • Intraoral Scanners: Devices that capture digital impressions of the teeth and soft tissues directly within the mouth. These scanners use optical or laser technology to create a 3D model of the oral cavity. They eliminate the need for traditional impression materials and improve patient comfort.
  • Extraoral Scanners: These scanners capture the facial structure.
  • Digital Photography: Used for documentation, treatment planning, and communication with patients and laboratories.

• Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM): CAD/CAM technology is a cornerstone of digital restorative dentistry.

  • CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Involves using computer software to design dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, and onlays. The design is based on digital impressions obtained from intraoral scanners or physical models scanned with laboratory scanners. The software allows for precise control over the restoration’s shape, size, and fit.
  • CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing): The designed restoration is then fabricated using computer-controlled milling machines or 3D printers. Milling machines carve the restoration from a solid block of material, such as ceramic, composite resin, or metal. 3D printers build the restoration layer by layer using materials like resins or metals.

• Digital Treatment Planning:

  • Implant Planning Software: Enables dentists to plan the placement of dental implants with great accuracy, considering bone density, anatomical structures, and prosthetic requirements. CBCT scans are typically used in conjunction with implant planning software.
  • Orthodontic Software: Used for planning and managing orthodontic treatment, including creating virtual setups, designing aligners, and monitoring treatment progress.
  • Surgical Guides: Digital dentistry enables the creation of surgical guides for precise implant placement or other surgical procedures. These guides are designed using CAD/CAM technology and ensure that the surgery is performed according to the pre-planned specifications.

• 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): A versatile technology used to create various dental applications.

  • Models and Dies: 3D printing is used to create accurate dental models and dies for fabricating restorations.
  • Surgical Guides: As mentioned above, surgical guides are often 3D-printed based on digital treatment plans.
  • Aligners and Retainers: Clear aligners for orthodontic treatment and retainers for maintaining tooth alignment can be 3D-printed.
  • Temporary Restorations: Temporary crowns, bridges, and dentures can be quickly fabricated using 3D printing.
  • Dentures: Digital dentures are being developed and fabricated using a combination of digital scanning, CAD/CAM, and 3D printing.
• Other Digital Technologies:
  • Digital Shade Matching: Devices that measure the shade of a tooth objectively, eliminating the subjectivity of visual shade matching.
  • Electric Handpieces and Motors: Offer more precise control and consistent performance compared to traditional air-driven handpieces.
  • Laser Dentistry: Uses lasers for various procedures, such as soft tissue surgery, cavity preparation, and teeth whitening.
  • Software and Practice Management Systems: Facilitate efficient patient record management, appointment scheduling, billing, and communication.

Benefits of Digital Dentistry:

• Improved Accuracy and Precision: Digital technologies, such as intraoral scanners and CAD/CAM systems, allow for more precise measurements and designs, leading to better-fitting restorations and improved treatment outcomes.
• Enhanced Efficiency: Digital workflows can streamline dental procedures, reducing chair time and laboratory turnaround time.
• Increased Patient Comfort: Digital impressions eliminate the need for messy and uncomfortable impression materials. Digital imaging reduces radiation exposure.
• Improved Communication: Digital images and models can be easily shared with patients, specialists, and laboratories, facilitating better communication and collaboration.
• Predictable Outcomes: Planning software allows for better predictability and planning of treatments.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: CAD/CAM technology allows for the creation of highly aesthetic restorations that closely mimic natural tooth appearance.
• Better Documentation: Digital records are easily stored, organized, and retrieved, improving documentation and reducing the risk of lost or damaged records.
• Educational Benefits: Digital images and models can be used for patient education, helping them understand their condition and treatment options.
• Reduced Waste: Digital workflows can reduce the amount of waste generated in dental practices by eliminating the need for impression materials and other disposable items.

Limitations:

• Initial Investment Costs: The initial investment in digital dental equipment and software can be substantial.
• Learning Curve: Dentists and staff need to be trained on how to use the new technologies and software.
• Maintenance and Repair: Digital equipment requires regular maintenance and can be expensive to repair.
• Technological Dependence: Reliance on digital technologies can be a disadvantage if there are equipment failures or software glitches.
• Accuracy Limitations: While generally accurate, digital technologies are not perfect and can have limitations in certain clinical situations.
• Material Limitations: The range of materials that can be used with CAD/CAM systems and 3D printers may be limited compared to traditional techniques.

Digital dentistry is constantly evolving, and new technologies are being developed to further improve dental care. As the cost of digital equipment decreases and the technology becomes more user-friendly, digital dentistry is becoming increasingly accessible to dental practices of all sizes.