What is Digital Dentistry?

Digital dentistryrefers to the full or partial use of computer-aided devices, methods and technologies in diagnosis, planning and treatment. Digital dentistry is a method developed to reduce human error, increase production precision and shorten treatment time.

From simple fillings to complex implant treatments, from aesthetic planning to smile design, from orthodontics to porcelain veneers, many applications can now be performed using technology and digital devices. In addition to the advantages of digital methods such as production speed and accuracy, a very important advantage is that the production data of all applications such as fillings, veneers, bridges, orthodontic plates, night plates and similar applications can be stored in the database and when they will be produced.

Even if the patient is in another city or country, i.e. it is not possible to go to the clinic, thanks to digital dentistry, the data can be presented online and production can be done in the country where the patient is located with the patient’s data. Another advantage is that the patient’s current oral condition can be scanned and recorded and compared with new scans in the future. This allows wear, displacement and similar changes to be detected.

How Long Does Digital Dentistry Treatment Take?

Digital dentistry applications During the restoration, measurements are taken with a computerized camera and the digital design of the restoration is completed in 10 to 15 minutes with micrometer precision. Although the total treatment time varies depending on the number of restorations required, most treatments are completed in one day and the patient does not have to live with a temporary tooth. All treatments can be stored digitally and the patient’s treatment history can be tracked.

Instruments used in digital dentistry They are high-tech scanning and engraving devices known as CAD/CAM. Thanks to these devices, patients only need to spare 1-2 hours between their busy schedules. In this way, maximum painless functional and aesthetic treatments are realized in a short time.

Advantages of Digital Dentistry

With digital dentistry, the size of the tooth to be restored is digitally captured and computerized thanks to a special camera that can easily photograph the mouth. This eliminates the risk of side effects such as nausea and allergies that reduce patient comfort during the measurement.

Personalized smile design, porcelain and zirconium veneers are the main areas of work where CAD/CAM system is mostly used. Since the use of digital impression technology in such aesthetic applications also contributes to long-term gum protection, the aesthetic results will be much more permanent. After the scanning, if no intervention is made to the teeth, the drawing of the smile will be made digitally and its shape after the treatment starts will be planned by the patient and the doctor, taking into account the facial shape of the person.

Detailed photographs and video images are used during this treatment, which meets aesthetic criteria and patients’ expectations in the best way. The treatment starts according to the plan and the patient gets a new smile in a short time. During the procedure, the affected area is given local anesthesia and the procedure is painless. The treatment process has no negative impact on the person’s comfortable life. If a color mismatch is detected, the color can be changed in a short time.