Technological advances are shaping every aspect of the healthcare industry, including dentistry. In the last two years alone, there have been innovative developments that improve procedure effectiveness, productivity, patient communication, education and more.
Here are a few of the most noteworthy technological developments creating buzz in the dental industry.
Soft Tissue Lasers
In both diagnosis and treatment, soft tissue lasers are useful for minor gum surgery. Further down the road, we may see hard tissue lasers being used for removing tooth decay. However, the high price tag means it will take time before these devices are widely used.
Digitizing of Implants
Digital technologies have led to implant treatments that are highly efficient and customizable. In recent years, the FDA has been more highly involved in dental labs. This is especially true in regards to implant dentistry. Implant abutments are considered a medical device, meaning they must abide by FDA standards.
Videography for Smile Design
In cosmetic dentistry, one of the biggest game changers was the use of video. By utilizing virtual smile software and videography, it’s possibly to design the right smile for a patient by observing the smallest details, such as how light reflects off the teeth in casual conversation.
Innovative Prevention
One of the most important parts of dental care is preventative. To help the average person maintain the best preventative care routine, various technologies have proven effective. For example, there are toothbrushes that can track how long you brush, which parts of your mouth aren’t being brushed for long enough and even if you’re brushing too hard. Acidic saliva is a risk factor for both tooth decay and gum disease, and there is now a mouthpiece that has a pH sensor, designed to detect acidic saliva.
At-Home Imaging
Some advances are showing promise for helping those in remote areas, or people who otherwise cannot access dental care. Scanning could soon be done with a smartphone, either at home or at a community clinic. This would cut down on dental cost because a dentist’s expertise could be allocated to only the more complex, difficult cases.
3D Printing
In recent years, 3D printers have become increasingly convenient and accurate. However, the technology is so rapidly evolving that doctors often don’t want to invest in a machine for fear that will soon be obsolete because of an improved version.
As you can see, there technology in dentistry has advanced greatly in the past few years, and it shows no signs of slowing anytime soon.