Technology has transformed our everyday lives significantly, bringing everything within reach of a fingertip. Dentistry has also been experiencing a revolution in the form of CAD/CAM-assisted crowns/bridges, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and many more. This article looks into some technologies that will totally change dentistry. So the next time you go to the dentist you may find the future is now.
Technology Changing Dentistry Forever
Some high tech dental clinics have already been upgraded with the latest technologies to offer you better treatments.
While some of these innovations are recurring, others may drastically change the dental industry. Here are some technologies that you may love to know about.
Ultrasound
The ultrasound technology has already done some incredible things for medical science, and now the dental care industry is picking up on such innovations.
The purpose of ultrasound in dentistry is to provide a radiation-free 2D or 3D imaging of your jaw and teeth at an affordable rate.
However, this game-changing technology has its downsides as well. The image resolution you get now isn’t high yet. This technology has a long way to go to provide the kind of accuracy and resolution dentistry requires.
3D Printing
3D printing is one of the many technologies that changed dentistry forever, especially the lab market. Initially developed for manufacturing, this innovation is now developing dental implants, teeth, surgical guides, etc.
By taking Carbon’s advances in 3D printing technology, the dental industry has developed several dental implants at a faster rate, with more accuracy. In addition, innovative materials are making it easier to cater to all dental production needs.
Robotics
2017 was a happy year for the dental industry because earlier that year, the FDA approved the first robot developed for dental implant surgery.
The robot was designed to conduct precise and accurate dental surgery, particularly for implant placements. However, it was just a hint of how much robotics can do for the dental industry.
Nowadays, surgical robots have more precise control over dental care, especially surgeries. Using these robots in surgery ensures less invasive procedures, better care, and faster healing time.
And the best part is scientists are experimenting with a total hands-free surgery, meaning that this industry will eventually be robotized.
Virtual Reality
If you’re a sci-fi fan, the chances are that you’ve already known about the virtual reality (VR) technology. In 2014, when Facebook purchased the VR company Oculus, this technology emerged as a game-changer for everyone.
While virtual reality is extensively used in gaming, it could bring a drastic change in dentistry.
VR training will educate dentists with more accuracy. So instead of learning traditionally in lecture rooms, students could use VR technology to get hands-on experience and hone their skills without experimenting on a real patient.
Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence is already a reality in many fields, meaning that it will soon dominate the dental industry in the coming year.
At present, the dentists have access to the hardware that is offering numerous remarkable solutions. However, while the hardware has its limitations, using machine learning in dentistry could solve a lot of problems.
Although modern dental offices can collect a significant amount of useful data from EHR, 3D images, etc., it could be even more helpful if the data was controlled by an AI.
For those who are wondering, the system was programmed to learn and develop its own intelligence. It can scan and analyze the problem of a patient and provide medications and other treatments. This will ensure it won’t interfere with other health issues.
Bioprinting
Imagine the tooth you are planning to implant is printed using your own genetic material. Sounds exciting, right?
Biomaterials are quite popular in medical science that are used to print final, organic prostheses. These artificial body parts will be biocompatible and wholly accepted by the patient’s body.
Although printable ceramics have been available for 3D printing for the past few years, these materials aren’t biocompatible. However, this technology has the potential to bring a revolution in the dental industry.
Gene-Mapping
While it’s a new technology, gene-mapping can be a glimpse of personalized dental care in the future.
Currently, some companies are working with DNA and genetic personalization technology to create an individualized nutrition plan, which will widely vary from person to person.
It’s easy and exciting to see how this personalized treatment can bring a significant change in the world of dentistry. A dentist will be able to determine which material type works best in the patient’s mouth by accessing his/her genetic make-up.
Additionally, the doctor will also be able to track if the patient has any further problems and suggest necessary precautionary treatment for that.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of things is one of the most hyped concepts that has made our life quite simpler. Life has become less of a hassle as you now order groceries through your fridge, dash buttons are helping you to order detergents, etc.
How interesting would it be if your teeth were connected to the internet as well? You may not believe it, but it has already started.
Having a smart tooth implanted inside your mouth can track your dental condition. It will also track your brushing habits, how you chew and drink, and many more.
Imagine a future where your teeth can determine what type of food you should eat and how much? When to order floss and toothpaste by itself, and auto-schedule a dental appointment.
While it sounds a bit bizarre right now, the internet-connected tooth will drastically change dental health treatment in the future.
Final Thoughts
In today’s world, almost everything is controlled by technology, including the healthcare industry. And, it has become quite common to see new innovative breakthroughs in dentistry nearly every day.
Not all of these technologies mentioned above are a reality now. Most of these concepts are under experiment or on trial. However, all of them have the potential to bring a massive change in dental healthcare forever.
If you care about improving your dental health, then you should read about the importance of family dental care?
About the author
Shawn is a content writer at FeedFond. A pet enthusiast and fitness freak, he loves all things animals. To read more of his articles, visit FeedFond.com.
