How technology is changing dentistry and what this means for your next dentist appointment
Technology is revolutionising the world of dentistry. With the introduction and development of new tools and technologies, dental treatments are becoming more advanced and efficient than ever before.
From smart monitoring tools to track your oral health in real-time, to AI and robotic dentistry that assist in procedures requiring high precision, a wide range of innovations are reshaping how dental care is delivered, so whenever you attend your next dentist appointment, your experience could be very different.
In recent years, we have seen several major developments in dentistry that have had a considerable impact on dental practices, changing the way patients are treated for many different conditions.
3D scanning and digital X-rays for more efficient dentistry
3D scanning and digitised X-rays have significantly modernised dentistry by replacing older, less efficient methods.
In the not so distant past, when dentists needed to make impressions of teeth, the patient had to bite down into trays filled with gooey putty.
Not only was this uncomfortable for patients, it was also difficult to make the most accurate impressions of teeth, as the putty could be easily manipulated as the tray was taken out of the mouth, or when handled by a dentist or dental nurse.
In contrast, 3D scanners create precise, real-time images of the mouth, allowing for much more accurate dental restorations and the ability to create appliances like dental aligners, crowns and bridges.
Digital X-rays have replaced film-based X-rays, which expose patients to higher levels of radiation, and take more time to process. The digital process provides immediate images of a much higher quality, allowing for more accurate diagnostics.
The key effects of digital X-rays and 3D scans on dentistry are much improved speed, accuracy and comfort of dental procedures. This technology provides a much more detailed view of the mouth, which is extremely helpful for planning treatments.
AI and robotic dentistry
It was recently reported that a robotics system, driven by Artificial Intelligence, completed its first completely automated dental procedure on a human.
The aim is for such a system, combining AI-driven 3D imaging and software and a robotic arm, to complete a range of restorative dental procedures such as crown placements, much faster and more accurately than any human.
Whilst the concept of the robot dentist will need to receive regulatory approval before it is viewed as safe for patient care, this breakthrough certainly gives an impression of what may be soon to come at dental appointments in the future.
Smart monitoring
Smart monitoring technologies will play a key role in the future of dentistry. Smart monitoring allows dentists and patients to track their oral health in real-time, even outside of regular dental appointments.
These innovations are revolutionising preventive care, assisting earlier detection of oral health issues, and helping dentists to design personalised treatments at your next dental appointment.
Smart monitoring technology can provide a wide range of real-time oral health data. For example, smart toothbrushes and dental apps can collect data on brushing habits, gum health, plaque buildup, and areas of dental care that might need more attention.
Dentists can use this important information to provide tailored advice for at-home care, including brushing techniques, as well as dental treatment. The result is that patients can prevent potential issues such as gum disease or cavities by addressing them early.
Another benefit of smart monitoring is improved communication with dentists. With smart monitoring tools, patients can better stay connected with their dentist between appointments.
As information is gathered and shared digitally and shared with dentists, they can provide timely feedback, without requiring in-person visits from patients.
Perhaps the most important way that smart monitoring is revolutionising dental care is that it encourages patients to be much more proactive about their dental care.
The ability to see real-time data can be an important motivator for people to maintain recommended oral health routines, and make improvements or adjustments where necessary.
These many benefits of smart monitoring combine to make dental care much more efficient and more personalised, with a strong focus on preventive care, rather than simply reacting to dental problems.
This helps patients to maintain healthy teeth and gums, whilst also reducing the need for more extensive dental treatments.
The present and future of smart dental care
Dental technology is advancing rapidly for the better. With innovations such as 3D scanning and digital X-rays already playing a key role in dental appointments, smart monitoring and smart toothbrushes increasingly utilised by dentists, and robotic dentistry expected to be a key feature in the near future, technology is transforming the way we experience dental care.
These innovations are making dental treatments more precise and efficient, whilst also improving comfort, and emphasising early detection and preventive care.
Patients can expect an increasingly tailored, more personalised care during dental visits, with less discomfort and better long-term oral health.
As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to see continued changes reshaping the dental industry, resulting in patients receiving the highest standard of care.
Find a dentist in Vauxhall
If you are looking for a high standard of dental care in central London that embraces technology to provide an extensive range of general and cosmetic dental services, then you can contact Riverside Dental Spa for personalised, high quality care.