The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, but in recent years, there have been some particularly exciting advancements. For dental professionals, this can mean new opportunities to expand their capabilities and options to provide a higher level of care for their patients. Some of these dental technologies also signal shifts within the industry, so for those who want their practice to remain competitive in a crowded market, it’s important to stay on top of the latest developments and see what other practices in your area are offering.
While there are a number of new dental technologies available, a few have been particularly noteworthy. Learn more about the most remarkable technological advancements in the dental industry.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality, often known simply as VR, is a type of technology that’s been around for a while now. It’s application in dentistry, however, is rather new. The idea behind VR is that you can put on a headset and feel like you’re transported to another place. Your surroundings are completely blocked out, so you’re fully immersed in the visual world presented in the headset. This world appears three-dimensional and realistic, so it’s easy to forget about the “outside” world and focus solely on what you see on the screen.
In dentistry, VR can be a calming tool for patients who feel anxiety or nervousness during dental appointments. It allows them to focus less on the procedures being done and feel more relaxed during their exams.
Additionally, VR is being used for some types of dental training. With the headset on, dental students can benefit from the way that virtual reality guides them through various procedures without having to work on actual patients.
Teledentistry
Many medical services have started to offer telehealth options, and dentistry is no different. Instead of coming into the office for a visit, patients can set up a video call with their dentist in order to address specific issues. This can be incredibly convenient for those with busy work schedules or who would otherwise need to arrange for child care in order to attend an appointment.
Just as with other medical specialties, only certain types of treatment can be conducted virtually. For example, patients still need to come in for cleanings and dental X-rays. However, it can be useful for basic examinations and determining whether certain issues, such as acute tooth pain, require an in-person appointment.
Robotics
Dental robotics may sound futuristic, but they’re actually being used in many dental practices today. Robotics can assist in a wide variety of complex surgeries by improving accuracy and precision. For example, dental implants can be placed with the assistance of robotics.
It’s important to note that robotics are not intended as a replacement for dental surgeons. However, they can be a very useful tool that helps to make surgeries more efficient while improving results for the patient.
Learning about new technologies and tools is one of the most exciting parts of dentistry. Whether you’re upgrading your digital X-ray equipment or looking for the latest dental compressors and vacuums, we can help you find high-tech dental equipment at DuraPro Health.
New Dental Technologies