The future of dentistry they say can be very surprising. As our world becomes more invested in technology, we see more things develop in terms of caring for our teeth. Being a dentist is still ranked high among chosen professions. It is among the top ten even in current years. Still, going to the dentist is one of the most uncomfortable feelings one could have. The good news is that new technologies have made it possible to make these visits less uncomfortable, a little less scary. It is in keeping with the other health care branches advancements towards better serving patients and customers.
Better tooth cavity detection
Digitized x-rays have saved many a tooth from extraction. Dentists rely on these to see cavities in the tooth. This is to determine if the tooth can still be saved through one means or another. They are efficient and fast making treatments easier. Comparison with before and after is faster. It also gives a timeline of the treatments accurately, making it easier for the dentists to suggest next steps.
Health wise digital x-rays have less radiation dose than the traditional film. It is also easier to capture the image and easier to store. More than cavity detection, these dental x-rays show the structure of the teeth underneath. It is particularly helpful for endodontists and those performing dental implants.
Some dentists use diode lasers to detect cavities on the chewing surface. Periodic visit comparisons tell whether the cavity needs to be removed and the tooth filled.
Faster and better dental needs
Amalgams are becoming a thing of the past. Dentists now use more natural looking composite and porcelain fillings. Resin, a plastic bonding material, is being used for chipped teeth. With a wider range of hues and shades, finding the right blend to match the natural colour of the rest of the teeth is easier.
Fashioning a tooth crown or bridge is faster with the help of 3D CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-assisted manufacture). The procedure can be done a lot quicker and at a significantly lower cost from tooth drilling to completion of crowns and bridges.
Smart toothbrush makes the beginning of oral hygiene easier for children to understand and adhere to. The app tells where you are brushing too much with heavy pressure or too little, skimming on hard to reach areas. This is particularly exciting for children when it is paired with linked apps that give incentives and points for proper tooth care.
Stem cell research is exciting in the dental world. Dental regeneration by stimulating stem cells and growing dentin seems very promising but it still is in the early stages. Once perfected, false teeth would be a thing of the past. More dazzling natural smiles on social media pictures.
Implants and veneers are there for better and healthier smiles. Development for thinner and stronger veneers make it possible for more of the original tooth to be kept intact. For more damaged or aesthetically unpleasant placed ones, implants are preferred. New technology has improved successful implants and their lifespan longer, of about 15 years.
Teledentistry
Whether it is the reluctance to go to the dentist or merely being safe amidst this virus scare worldwide, teledentistry is a safe and handy option. Hard to reach areas and people with certain needs and disabilities can still avail of much needed dental services. If further consultation is needed then an appointment can be made for a physical visit.
Augmented and Virtual reality
These tools can be used for learning and sharing more about teaching and dental surgeries. Virtual reality is especially helpful in distracting patients. Both augmented reality and virtual reality allow students of dentistry to learn more on actual surgeries done on a global scale. Simulations can help prepare for actual surgeries.
With the help of these innovations, dentists have an even bigger chance of providing us with the best natural smiles. They give us an even better chance to have improved oral health, making a visit to the dentist something to look forward to.
Computer-Guided Titanium Dental Implants: Future Dentistry Now
Originally created for neurosurgery, the computer-guided procedures have helped dentists a lot. Yes, they can now carry out implantation without any risks and guarantee best possible outcomes.
Despite the benefits, the number of dentists ready to implement this technology remains dramatically low. Studies have shown that last year, less than 20,000 computer-guided surgeries took place, but approximately 2 million implants were placed.
Computer-guided surgeries use the pictures of the patient’s CT scan to precisely prepare the implant. The software helps the dentist to visualize and to manipulate pictures of the jawbone along with the surrounding tissues so that they come up with a definite approach. CT scans are known for showing the density of the bone, the root anatomy, the vicinity of the adjacent teeth, and other vital structures.
What are the Chief Advantages of Computer-Guided Implant Surgery?
The chief benefit of placing titanium implants through a computer is cent percent accuracy. The dentists of the future are capable of observing the important anatomic structures and plan how to preserve them under all circumstances. In case of traditional surgery, these anatomical structures may get harmed.
Computer-guided surgery is exceptionally detailed so one can eliminate or at least alleviate unexpected occurrences. Also, the duration is quite less, which is beneficial for the patient. He or she does not have to worry, lie or sit, and endure the discomfort for a long period. Prior to scheduling an appointment, it will be better to know the cons because a coin has two sides.
What are the Drawbacks of Computer-Guided Implant Surgery?
The main drawback of computer-guided implant surgery is the cost. Yes, patients need to spend a lot for the special surgical equipment, the planning software, and the time required to train. At present, the clinicians are experimenting so that they can get rid of the negative side completely.
When is Computer-Guided Implant Surgery Advised?
The most advanced dental implants now available are recommended in specific situations. Computer-guided surgeries help when the patients need four or more titanium implants sequentially placed, or when the placement is critical, and there is a chance of disorders.
The patients, who experience issues with the volume or the structure of the bone, and the anatomy requires a substantial amount of alteration, can benefit a lot from the computer-guided surgery. It keeps the problems associated with the proximity of the adjacent teeth at bay.
The patients who must go through dental extraction immediately are also suitable. Still, before actually opting for the said treatment, make sure to go through a routine checkup. This will prevent all kinds of complications.
Dental implants, even the ones placed through software, needs maintenance. The patients must not consume anything excessively cold or hot. It will be better to have softer food items at room temperature. Do not disturb the treated area with fingers or tongue, and indulge in strenuous workout sessions. Let it heal.
Pain or swelling usually subside after 48 hours; however, if a person is feeling restless, he or she can request the doctor to prescribe some medication.