The dental industry is undergoing significant changes due to the development of new technologies and innovations. The experienced dentist takes into consideration and, if appropriate adjusts to these advancements but only with an understanding awareness of the legal issues that are involved.
Digital radiography, as an example, has replaced X-rays with instruments that provide a more precise visualization while providing patients with less radiation. Additionally, intraoral cameras allow dentists to obtain well-defined images of hard-to-see regions in the oral cavity. This allows patients to be more aware of their options for treatment and aid them in taking better care of their oral health at home.
CAD/CAM systems are a different innovation that allow for the speedy creation of custom-made bridges as well as crowns without the need of messy molds that are traditionally used. Dental lasers are used to serve a variety of functions for precision gum contouring, painless cavity detection and much more. The creation of biomaterials more resistant to wear and tear and that can be customized in translucency and color to the natural teeth of patients, offers new solutions for tooth restoration and periodontal disease treatment.
Teledentistry is a method of providing the much-needed accessibility to dental care for those with disabilities, the elderly, and people living in remote areas. Telehealth platforms allow dentists to take images, make clinical notes and talk to patients using video chat software. 3D printing is also changing dental labs by allowing them to print custom prosthetics and surgical guides. This speedily reduces turnaround time and allows for more precise, better fitting restorations.