What is digital dentistry?

 

It is the application of digital technologies in various dental procedures, from diagnosis to treatment and prosthesis manufacturing.

 

It involves the use of tools such as:

 

• Intraoral scanners.
• Computer-aided design (CAD) software.
• Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).
• 3D printing.
• Digital radiography.

 

Advantages of digital dentistry:

 

Greater precision:

 

Digital imaging and computer-aided design allow for more precise treatment planning and execution.

Errors and the need for subsequent adjustments are reduced.

 

Greater efficiency:

 

Digital workflows streamline procedures, reducing wait times for patients.

Prosthesis fabrication is faster and more accurate.

Greater patient comfort:

Intraoral scanning eliminates the need for traditional impressions, which can be uncomfortable.

Treatments are faster and less invasive.

Improved communication:

Digital images allow for better visualization of dental problems and clearer communication between dentist and patient.

It also allows for better communication between the doctor and the dental laboratory.

 

Greater aesthetics:

 

Digital technology allows for the design of prostheses with a very natural and personalized appearance.

Applications of digital dentistry:

 

Diagnosis:

 

Digital radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for precise imaging of dental and bone structures.

Intraoral scanning for creating 3D models of the mouth.

Treatment planning:

CAD software for planning implant placement, prosthetic design, and orthodontics.

Prosthetic manufacturing:

CAD/CAM systems for manufacturing crowns, bridges, veneers, and dentures with high precision.

3D printing for creating models and surgical guides.

 

Orthodontics:

 

Clear aligners (Invisalign) designed using digital technology.

Virtual orthodontic treatment planning.

 

Guided surgery:

 

Design and manufacture of surgical guides for placing dental implants with maximum precision.

 

In short, digital dentistry is transforming dental practice, offering more precise, efficient, and comfortable treatments for patients.