The dental profession has witnessed some exciting technological growth over the last few decades. As mechanical and electrical devices are replaced by more computerized technology, those in the dental profession are seeing a technology revolution that will not only make dentistry less intrusive and intimidating, it will also greatly improve the comfort, durability, and efficiency of dental treatments for patients. Of the many technological advancements in dentistry, below are some popular ones that may enrich your experience at your next visit to the dentist:
1. CAD/CAM
Computer Assisted Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing in Dentistry (CAD/CAM) allows technicians to improve the design and creation of dental restorations by testing various alternatives digitally. Besides the advantage of making treatment designs accessible to patients for feedback and potential customization, CAD/CAM is also a time saver for allowing patients to finish their prosthesis in a single appointment. Prior to this, traditional prosthesis, such as crowning, required at least two separate appointments: one for luting, the other for bonding. This conventional approach made dental treatment inconvenient and painful because temporaries would be installed during the time of restoration production. CAD/CAM, however, made dental restorations easier for both patients and dentists.
2. Digital X-rays
Also known as digital radiography, digital x-rays are much faster and more accurate than traditional radiography. Although digital radiography does not completely eliminate radiation, the implementation of highly sensitive sensor and phosphor plates can greatly reduce patients’ radiation exposure level. In the end, digital radiography not only increases the comprehensiveness and accuracy of oral cavity depictions, it also makes this common dental procedure safer and friendlier than before.
3. Laser Dentistry
A dental laser is a new technology that can be used in procedures that are surgical, restorative, and enrichment in nature. Dental lasers greatly improve patients’ surgical experiences by minimizing bleeding, reducing the need for local anesthesia, and alleviating the intensity of the procedure. Lastly, a dental laser is also more efficient than the traditional instrument (known as the “explorer”). Instead of getting poked by the explorer during cavity checkup, a diode laser can provide a better diagnosis and has become a high-tech option for detecting and removing cavities.
4. Oral Sedation Dentistry
Unlike the traditional modalities of inhalation or the IV tradition, the new medication eliminates both nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and the frightening needle by administering medication that allows patients to relax through their dental appointments. This new form of oral sedation is part of the effort to help patients overcome odontophobia and receive dental treatment without undergoing great emotional distress.
5. NTI-tss Device
The NTI-tss device is an anterior bite stop used for the prevention and treatment of migraine, temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, and other tension-related headaches. This new device can be molded to fit the oral structure of the patient and has been proven as a great means of reducing pain-associated temporomandibular disorders.
6. Composite Resins
Dental composite resins are synthetic resins that produce a natural-looking tooth filling in place of the traditional materials gold or amalgam. The new alternative is more cost-effective than other cosmetic treatments. The materials are also safer, more durable, and more aesthetic than conventional ones.
Developments in dental technology over the past ten years—such as the ones mentioned in this article and others like air abrasion and autoclaves—have greatly improved the dental industry. While there is much work to be done, ongoing research and study will continue to create new opportunities for dentists and patients to experience dental service at a better and more efficient level.
This article was contributed by Sheldon Armstrong, a regular contributor here at The Tech Scoop. He writes this together with Randy L. Gittess of www.gittessbraces.com. Check out their website today and see how they can help you or your child get the braces they need at a reasonable price!
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