Dental technologies have come a long way in the past few years, and the latest advancements are making dental procedures faster, easier, and more comfortable for patients. These help in speeding up the procedure by reducing time and improving accuracy. Here are six of the most cutting-edge dental technologies you can expect to see in your dentist’s office shortly.
Digital X-Rays
Gone are the days of waiting for film to develop. Digital x-rays use a digital sensor to create an image of the teeth. The image is then displayed on a computer screen. This not only saves time but also allows for a more accurate diagnosis.
The main difference between traditional x-rays and digital x-rays is that traditional x-rays use film to capture the image of the teeth, while digital x-rays use a digital sensor. Moreover, digital x-rays are not only faster but also expose patients to less radiation than traditional x-rays. This means that digital x-rays are not only more efficient but also safer.
3D Printing
3D printing is being used more and more in dentistry to create custom braces and crowns. The printer deposits successive layers of material, usually plastic until the object is complete. Unlike traditional methods, which can take weeks, 3D printing can produce results in just a few hours. This means that patients can get their new teeth much faster.
This technology can create highly accurate models of teeth, which helps to ensure a perfect fit. It can also be used to create custom implants and same-day fixtures that are not available with traditional methods.
CAD/CAM Technology
CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) technology is used to create digital models of teeth that can be used to create custom crowns, bridges, and other dental prosthetics.
Like 3D printing, CAD/CAM can create highly accurate models of teeth. This helps to ensure a perfect fit and minimizes the need for adjustments. Furthermore, because the entire process is digital, it is much faster than traditional methods.
The main difference between 3D printing and CAD/CAM is that CAD/CAM is a digital process while 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process. These two work together to create custom dental implants, bridges, and other fixtures. It also helps to speed up the process and get results to patients faster.
Laser Dentistry
Lasers are being used more and more in dentistry for various procedures, including teeth whitening, cavity detection, and gum surgery. Lasers are faster and more precise than traditional methods, which means less pain and discomfort for patients.
Laser dentistry uses a laser to cut through tissue. The laser is focused on the tissue and delivers energy in the form of light. This causes the tissue to heat up and vaporize. The vaporized tissue is then removed by suction. Then, the area is cooled and a new layer of tissue is formed.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. It is fast, effective, and safe. The procedure uses a bleaching gel that contains hydrogen peroxide. This gel is applied to the teeth and activated with a special light.
The main advantage of in-office teeth whitening is that it is much faster than at-home whitening kits. It is also more effective because the gel is applied directly to the teeth and activated with a strong light. This allows the hydrogen peroxide to penetrate the teeth and bleaching to occur faster.
Moreover, in-office teeth whitening is safe because the gel is applied by a professional and the light is carefully monitored. This minimizes the risk of damage to the teeth or gums. In short, this is a fast, effective, and safe way to achieve brighter teeth.
Intraoral Cameras
Intraoral cameras are small cameras that can be used to get a close-up view of your teeth and gums. This allows dentists to quickly identify problems and formulate a treatment plan. Intraoral cameras also allow patients to see what the dentist sees, which can help them make more informed decisions about their oral health care.
However, intraoral cameras are not just for diagnosing problems. They can also be used to show patients how their teeth look after a procedure, such as teeth whitening. This helps to ensure that patients are satisfied with the results. Plus, it can help to build trust between patients and dentists.
These days, there is no reason to spend hours in the dental chair. Thanks to advances in technology, dental procedures can be done quickly and efficiently. If you’re looking for a faster way to get out of the dentist’s office, ask about these new technologies next time you’re due for a checkup.