Digital dentistry: Innovation and improved outcomes for patients

In this informative guide, highly respected dentist Dr Amir Mirzaei shares his expert insight on digital dentistry and its applications in dental care and treatment. The leading specialist also reveals how innovations in the field are improving outcomes for patients and discusses what is involved in prosthodontics and tooth restoration.

What is digital dentistry?

Digital dentistry is a revolutionary term which refers to the use of modern digital technologies in various aspects of dental care, including diagnosis, treatment planning, and the fabrication of dental restorations. The use of digital imagining such as CBCT (3D x-rays) gives dentists a clearer understanding of the patient's anatomy prior to providing treatment which improves the quality of the care and reduces the risks of treatments.

Digital Imaging

Digital imaging techniques such as intraoral scanners, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), and digital radiography allow for highly detailed and three-dimensional imaging of the oral structures. This aids in precise diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient communication.

Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM)

CAD/CAM technology enables the design and fabrication of dental restorations, such as crowns, veneers, bridges, and dentures, using computerised systems. Digital impressions captured by intraoral scanners are used to create virtual models, which are then used to design restorations. These designs are then sent to milling machines or 3D printers for the fabrication of the final restorations.

Digital Smile Design (DSD)

DSD utilises digital tools to analyse and plan the aesthetic and functional aspects of a patient's smile. It involves the use of imaging software to digitally manipulate photographs and create a customised smile design for the patient, which serves as a blueprint for cosmetic and restorative treatments.

Tele-dentistry

Digital dentistry has facilitated the growth of tele-dentistry, which allows for remote consultations, diagnosis, and monitoring of patients. Dentists can provide advice, guidance, and even perform virtual follow-ups using video conferencing and digital communication tools.

What are the advantages of digital dentistry over conventional dentistry?

Digital dentistry has utilised the integration of computerised systems and devices to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and precision of dental procedures. Thereby the quality of the service and the products the patients are receiving has superseded the conventional methods. It is also much easier to upgrade and stay up to date to the latest technology digitally.

Are there any limitations associated with digital dentistry?

Limitations of digital dentistry are summarised in the cost of equipment and training, equipment reliability, compatibility of software and hardware with each other in a clinical setting. Data security and privacy and its management and associated costs can be another factor that must be considered. Accessibility is another, as many clinical set ups don't have the facilities or the human power to be able to convert to the digital world.

What is implant prosthodontics?

Implant prosthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry that focuses on the restoration and replacement of missing teeth using dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, typically titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a foundation for dental prostheses.

Prostheses can be fabricated as crowns, bridges, or dentures. The type of prostheses is planned prior to the implant placement and it depends on the size of the gap, the quality of the bone and specific patient's needs. Implant prosthodontics has revolutionised the field of restorative dentistry by providing an alternative durable and reliable option for tooth replacement. It offers numerous benefits, including improved chewing and speech abilities, enhanced aesthetics, preservation of adjacent teeth, and prevention of bone loss in the jaw.

What is the difference between prosthodontics and removable prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment planning, and restoration of teeth in order to function meet the aesthetics needs of the patient through the use of prosthetic devices. It involves the replacement of missing teeth and the restoration of damaged teeth using various treatment modalities, including fixed prosthodontics and removable prosthodontics.

Fixed prosthodontics primarily refers to the restoration of teeth using non-removable prostheses, such as dental crowns, bridges, or implant-supported fixed restorations. These prostheses are permanently cemented or attached to existing teeth or dental implants, providing a stable and long-lasting solution. Fixed prosthodontics aims to restore the form, function, and aesthetics of the natural dentition.

On the other hand, removable prosthodontics involves the use of complete dentures or removable partial dentures, to replace missing teeth. These prostheses can be easily taken out and inserted by the patient. Removable prosthodontics is commonly used when there are multiple missing teeth or when fixed prosthodontic options are not suitable due to specific clinical situations.

The main difference between prosthodontics and removable prosthodontics lies in the nature of the prostheses used. Prosthodontics encompasses both fixed and removable prostheses, while removable prosthodontics specifically focuses on removable dental prostheses. Prosthodontists, who are specialists in prosthodontics, have advanced training and expertise in restoring and replacing teeth using various prosthetic techniques. They assess individual patient needs, develop comprehensive treatment plans, and coordinate multidisciplinary care to achieve optimal oral function, aesthetics, and patient satisfaction.

If you think you could benefit from treatment with digital dentistry and wish to schedule a consultation with Dr Mirzaei, visit his Top Doctors profile today.