Digital Transformation in Dentistry

Digital dentistry is rapidly becoming part of our lives. Dr. Assoc. Prof. Burcu Diker from the Department of Prosthodontic Dentistry at Istanbul Okan University Dental Hospital provided important information about modern dentistry methods that offer patients comfort and time savings. With intraoral scanners developed in the field of prosthodontic dentistry, many stages such as impression taking and model creation are no longer necessary. This increases the precision of restorations performed and provides comfort and time savings for patients.

Treatment Made Easier With Technological Methods

Using precision cameras that can capture images from inside the mouth, the dimensions of the tooth to be restored are scanned and transferred to a computer. Eliminating the wait for impression material to harden in the mouth simplifies treatment, particularly for patients with gag reflex and those uncomfortable with impression trays placed in their mouth.

Dentistry Approach That Designs Your Smile

Digital dentistry is not limited to intraoral scanning alone. These technological capabilities also provide convenience for dentist and patient in digital planning. Digital planning is frequently used, particularly in smile design and implant position determination, in patients suitable for this treatment plan. Prior to an invasive procedure, the patient's facial photographs and intraoral scan record are transferred to specialized computer programs to obtain the patient's appearance following treatment with regard to tooth shape and facial features. This is of considerable importance in helping the patient understand possible outcomes. Digital dentistry is predominantly used in aesthetic treatment for porcelain veneer applications. Due to various causes – tooth discoloration, closing spaces between front teeth, cases where tooth height is short, and mild crowding – porcelain veneers can be a treatment option. With the advantage of minimal tooth surface abrasion, an aesthetic and healthy result can be achieved.