New technology has paved the way for innovative dentistry techniques and procedures that were, just a few decades ago advances in dentistry have emerged quicker than in many other medical fields. we’ll discuss the top technologies in digital dentistry that will likely play a major role in your dental practice.

1. Digital Imaging

This technology relies on intraoral and digital cameras capable of documenting the clinical condition of a patient’s teeth, gums, and mouth using still and moving images.

2. Laser Equipment

Soft-tissue lasers are used for minor gum surgeries, while hard-tissue lasers could soon replace harsh drills to remove decay. Lasers use very small, digitally-controlled mirrors and will make cavity treatment easier and faster for patients.

3. Digital Smile Design

Digital Smile Design (DSD) creates 3D photos and videos of every angle of the mouth.

Patients can work closely with their dentist throughout the Digital Smile Design process. Once they have approved the 3D model and mock-up images, the restoration process can begin. 

4. Regenerative Dentistry

Researchers developed dental fillings that allow teeth to heal themselves. These fillings stimulate stem cells to promote the growth of dentin, enabling patients to regrow teeth that were damaged by dental disease.

5. Computer-Assisted Design and 3D-Printing

With CAD/CAM technology, the tooth is drilled in preparation for the crown and a picture is taken with a computer. This image is relayed to a machine that makes the crown in-office.

3D printers can also produce orthodontic models, aligners, retainers, and dental equipment faster and with precision.

6. Virtual Reality

Using a virtual reality camera, surgeons can stream operations across the globe while medical students can experience ‘being there’ in the OR using their VR headset. This is a huge consideration for post-pandemic dental continuing education 

7. Augmented Reality

AR is prevalent in reconstructive and aesthetic procedures where patients have the ability to see what they will look like after their treatment. Virtual depictions are overlaid onto images of their teeth prior to the procedure, allowing patients and dentists to work together to achieve the desired outcome prior to the procedure.

8. Smart Toothbrushes

Smart toothbrushes make sure your younger patients are brushing their teeth the right way using a built-in app that offers kids fun games to keep up the good habit of regularly cleaning their teeth. 

9. Artificial Intelligence

Dentists will soon integrate AI algorithms with existing software to enable clinicians to find the best modalities for their patients. Smart algorithms can be integrated into the healthcare system to analyze health data, research findings, and treatment techniques for the purpose of offering diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations for their patients.