Dental technology and innovations are continually transforming smiles and lives by providing better access to precision, accuracy, and patient-centered care. Smart toothbrushes, that monitor brushing patterns to regenerative treatments that could replace dentures and implants in the near future are just a few of the innovations that are constantly evolving.
Laser dentistry is becoming more popular and enables dentists to perform a variety of treatments with less invasive techniques, like gum disease treatment and tooth decay elimination. Nanotechnology is also improving dental find materials, with coatings and fillings that resemble natural tooth enamel even more closely, while decreasing wear and tear. 3D printing is, however is revolutionizing the industry because it allows the production of complex dental parts quickly and precisely. It is now possible to let dentists design and fabricate dental prosthetics themselves without waiting for the services of a lab. This helps reduce errors and allows for adjustments.
Other new technologies include digital X-rays (dental radiography) and cone beam computed tomography scans, that provide high-resolution images of the soft tissues and teeth. These diagnostic tools are more precise and safe than traditional X-rays, and prevent exposure to harmful radiation.
Virtual reality (VR) is a method of providing a distraction for patients to help reduce their perception of pain and improve their dental experience. It makes treatment less stressful and helps them feel less pain. Additionally, augmented reality (AR) is increasingly used as a method of educating patients and help plan treatment by allowing them to experience immersive visualizations of their results.