There are a number of interesting technological advancements being made in dentistry today, but one of the most exciting is undoubtedly virtual reality, often referred to simply as VR. This technology has become a gamechanger for patients and dental professionals alike. Learn more about how dental VR can be implemented in your practice.
What Is Virtual Reality?
If you’re not familiar with VR, it helps to understand a little bit of the background behind this technology. Virtual reality is a computer technology that creates a simulated world. It can be viewed on a computer screen, like a video game. When experienced through a head-mounted display, it creates the feeling of being in a three-dimensional world. The viewer feels fully immersed in this world, with the headset fully blocking out any vision of their actual surroundings.
Applications for Patients
There are a number of different ways in which VR can be used in the dental field. One of the most commonly used applications today is to minimize patient discomfort. For many, going to the dentist brings up feelings of fear or anxiety. Many people worry about the pain they might feel during examinations or procedures, and the feeling of being vulnerable in the dental chair can be worrisome as well.
For dental practices, offering the option for VR headset use during appointments can make their practice stand out among their competitors. If you’re looking to attract new patients, you may want to consider upgrading your services to include this option.
Applications for Dental Professionals
It’s not just the patients who can benefit from using virtual reality technology. In addition, dental professionals can use VR to enhance their professional trainings. There are major advantages in the use of VR for dental students in particular. This technology allows the students to experience what it’s like to complete certain types of procedures without working on actual patients. This is a great way to improve skills and get additional practice before operating on a patient in the real world.
Experienced dentists can also use VR to learn new techniques or see the applications for new dental tools and equipment. Because the field of dentistry is always evolving rapidly, VR offers a way to keep up with new advancements without having to practice on actual patients or attend demonstrations in person.
Virtual reality isn’t just for gaming or certain high-tech industries. It’s something that has useful and beneficial applications in many fields, including dentistry. Consider whether VR might be a good fit for your practice in terms of improving the patient experience and enhancing the skills of your team.
How Virtual Reality Is Improving the Dental Industry for Patients and Dentists