Earliest impressions of practice may comprise noise of and dealing with pain. However, present day dental practice has changed and moved on from such illustrations and has become more of a ‘provocative care’ where comfort, accuracy and consistent practices of the oral health maintenance are offered to the patient. In this piece, we explore the latest trends and technologies that have allowed dental care to go “beyond the drill” and deliver primary care which is also therapeutic to the well being of the individuals.
The dental office is a far better environment than the earlier and most others are one could recount. It now allows for patients feel at ease while availing services as technologies such as micro drills and drills that enhance procedure assists the patients feel less pain. There are advances in technology within the field such as digital imaging, laser use or even procedures where cuts are frowned upon that have altered patients’ interactions with dentists. These advances incorporate not only the effectiveness of the procedures but also create a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Digital imaging is one of the greatest advancements when it comes to dentistry. Digital X-rays, cameras capable of taking pictures of the inside of patients’ mouths and CBCT or Cone beam Computed Tomography aid in providing high detailed three dimensional structures of bits of the tooth, gingival tissue, and the bone surrounding the jaw. With these imaging tools, dentists are able to determine problems much better and plan treatment with high precision. Additionally, digital imaging provides a safer option as it lowers the amount of radiation that patients are exposed to unlike the conventional x-rays.
Laser dentistry has significantly changed numerous dental procedures including the treatment of gum diseases or preparing cavities. Lasers provide a less aggressive alternative to the use of a drill hence less pain and reduced bleeding. In addition to this, soft tissue procedures such as gingival sculpting and maxillary frenulum cutting or releasing can also be addressed more efficiently as the bleeding is minimal, and recovery is faster with the use of lasers. Modern teeth whitening processes also employ laser technology to enhance the speed and efficacy of the procedure.
Modern restorative dentistry is also founded on minimal invasive procedures. These procedures are aimed at preserving all natural teeth structures and reducing any damage to the adjacent tissues. A good example is air abrasion which utilizes fine particles and air to remove decay without in some instances, the need for a traditional drill. This is used in children and those who are fearful of the procedures.
Restorative procedures have also been massively improved in recent years. Computer aided design and manufacturing generally known as CADCAM allows the dentist to perform single-appointment restorations for crowns, bridges and veneers. Temporary restorations are not included any more and the number of appointments is reduced. New materials like zirconia or lithium disilicate allow to provide strong esthetic restorations that perfectly match the natural teeth.
Preventive dentistry aims at sustaining good oral health in years to come. In addition to this modern dental clinics also focus on patient’s educations and preventing illness on a personalized basis. Following dental cleanings ,use of fluoride and sealants helps in preventing any cavities or gum disease. Screening for oral cancer and evaluating the periodontium are also examples of preventative practices.
Such use of technology is applied not in treatment procedures alone. Therefore patient’s management becomes more efficient and dentist to dentist communication is also facilitated through the application of electronic health records (EHRs). Patients are able to access the systems and book appointments online which is more convenient and accessible. Tele dentistry adds a new dimension to dentistry by conducting remote consultations and follow ups, which are very useful in areas where the services of dentists are not readily accessible.
Patient oriented practices are the ideals of current dental practice. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are examples of sedation dentistry that enable patients to remain calm throughout the treatment process. Also, the use of gentle care and reassuring manner allow the possibility of acceptance of this experience in a positive way. In addition, emphasis on patient education encourages patients to assume responsibility for their oral health.
The development of dental care is not only changing results in the clinical area but also changes the whole perspective of visiting a dental office. With the incorporation of advanced tools and procedures in dental practices, it is easy to go beyond just fixing immobile teeth and provide better services than what is called “tooth care” which brings satisfaction, accuracy and care for a patient. This way, it does not just change the appearances of people, but also it improves their wellbeing.
