We live in a century where the emphasis is particularly on technology and its immersion in as many areas as possible.
This is why, like many other specialties, dentistry also uses modern means for investigations, treatments and even monitoring of results. Among the innovations in this field, we will mention the following:
The use of CAD-CAM system– this system allows the computerized milling of the oral cavity situation, its transposition into a program that allows 3D visualization, the establishment of the treatment plan and then the milling into ceramic or hydroxyapatite blocks of the models that will then be applied in the oral cavity.
In this way it is possible to design prosthetic works which will then be applied to the teeth specially prepared in this way.
The resulting dentures have a superior fit and the potential for soft tissue damage is considerably reduced.
Hydroxyapatite blocks can also be milled to replace bone deficiency in a particular region of the oral cavity. From a block of hydroxyapatite, based on information received via specially developed software, the milling machine will prepare a piece that fits precisely into the place for which it is intended.
Use of ultrasound –particularly in endodontics, ultrasound is very helpful in cleaning root canals, preparing them for obturation and enhancing the effect of antiseptic solutions.
Endodontics is not the only area where ultrasound is proving to be effective, it can be useful in prophylaxis (professional hygiene), extractions (dislocation of periodontal ligaments to mobilize teeth) and caries (cleaning and preparation of cavities), cleaning dental instruments in the ultrasound bath.
Photography – in recent years, all electronic devices created take pictures, whether we are talking about phones, tablets or other devices.
The field of photography is particularly important and this translates easily to dentistry.
Photography done correctly is important for both the doctor and the patient. The use of photography in dentistry is often an easy way to communicate within the medical team.
Patients have the opportunity to see with digital photographs how their situation has developed, regardless of the treatments that have been performed.
Patients tend to forget what the original condition of their dental arches was, which is why we use photographs as an aid.
Technology is making its way quickly and safely into dental practices and interdisciplinary communication is becoming the key to exceptional results. Certainly, as time goes by, more and more tools will appear to facilitate and perfect the doctor’s work.
They need to be used with discernment, their pluses and possible minuses need to be known, and there need to be clinical studies on their usefulness.
In dental practices there are challenges every day, complex situations, cases that require long-term therapy and patience on both sides. That is why monitoring results and immersing technology in everyday work is of real help in predicting results, making the work easier, arousing patient interest and monitoring long-term results.
The patient needs to be receptive to the changes that improved technology brings.
