Types of Computer-based Technologies in Dentistry and Their Applications

In the past decade, dentistry has benefited greatly from technological advancements. Namely, computer-based technologies that make dentistry jobs easier, more thorough, and more accurate. Another advantage is that, now, there are fewer problems that cannot be solved.

Overall, technology has completely revolutionised the way we work in dentistry and has given us a plethora of opportunities to discover more about the issues that patients face.

This new method of problem-solving can be applied to almost any situation, which is possible due to the well-developed roots which stabilise the process and make it safe. In dentistry, we simply call them CAD/CAM technologies.

Cone-beam Computed Tomography Imaging

Due to the inability to physically see the oral cavity from all angles, cone-beam computed tomography Imaging presented itself as a quite practical solution. This is basically a rotating X-ray which allows the dental professional to examine a three-dimensional view of the patient’s teeth and oral anatomy. In turn, we are able to create more accurate surgical guides for implants.

The core benefit of CT has to be the fact that it can discover tumours and bodily mutations other traditional X-rays would have missed, potentially saving the patient’s life. It is also useful for endodontic and third molar removal. CT is rapidly becoming the proposed standard in most dental offices as the benefits and uses continue to surface.

Diagnodent

As much as 90% of people in Australia experience tooth decay, most commonly due to accumulated dental caries. Yet, when patients notice their teeth are decaying, it’s often too late for any minor interventions. In these cases, it is imperative for the dentist to resort to more serious measures to prevent further decay and salvage what they can. If the process is stopped on time and progression is prevented, the patient will be able to walk out with minimal consequences.

This is what diagnodent is intended to enable. The technology allows the dentist to see the early signs of decay which the naked eye often misses and thus solve the problem at its core. The treatment begins immediately and tooth decay is limited and controlled.

Dental Lasers

Dentists everywhere are able to achieve better precision with soft tissue lasers due to their wide availability and affordability. The effect is achieved owing to the fact that pain, bleeding, and trauma is minimal when lasers are utilised. They can be used on both a hard tooth and soft gums, allowing the dentist to accurately and precisely solve any issues they may encounter.

Lasers are most commonly used in periodontics, endodontics, and surgery, as well as prosthodontics.

CAD/CAM

As already mentioned above, CAD/CAM technologies paved the path to other computer-based methods. Basically, this is a synonym for prostheses which are made with milling technology.

The Computer Aided Design, or CAD, is much more stable, accurate, simple, and safe. The prostheses made with CAD, therefore, have no wielding and almost no distortion. The more accurate design makes the restoration stronger, and the final shade and ceramic thickness better. All of this is possible thanks to 3D printing and milling. The printing/milling process involves only a few steps and is rather simple while giving astonishing results. First, an oral scan is conducted as well as a scan of the plaster model. The shape is then designed according to the lateral and adjacent teeth. Next, a dental expert moves on to data transmission and typesetting, and then finally to the actual printing/milling. Oceanic Dental Laboratory is among those who perform the described process with state-of-the-art technology, as the best results and the safety of the patients is always prioritised.

Digital radiography

With digital radiography, traditional x-rays are a thing of the past. The process is safer as there is almost no radiation and is much faster compared to regular x-rays. The images are clearer and more accurate, allowing the dentist to see exactly what they are up against. Comfort is the priority with digital radiography, and no patient will complain about the pain or distress, as there will not be any.

Another huge benefit of digital radiography is that dentists can easily store images on the computer and ask their colleagues for a second opinion. This allows them to provide a diagnosis more safely without delaying proper treatment. It’s also astonishing how detailed digital radiography is, as it can map out teeth and dental impressions, setting the ground for a more accurate cosmetic colour shading.

Conclusion

Technological advancements are taking dental diagnostics and treatment to the next level. Whether the patient has a cavity, requires a prosthesis, or are dealing with a more extreme dental issue – the issue can be dealt with properly if a dental practice partners up with a digital laboratory equipped with sophisticated computer-based technologies.