Minimally invasive dentistry is just one technology that has the potential to change the way that dentists practice. Augmented reality, 3D printing, AI and more are also emerging technologies that will impact the future of dentistry. Read on Chapel Hill Dentistry to learn more. In the meantime, here are some technologies that are currently transforming the dental profession. Consider these three emerging technologies when looking for a new dentist. All are likely to help improve the patient experience.

Minimally invasive dentistry

As the name implies, minimally invasive dentistry focuses on repairing decayed teeth using the least amount of dental materials, while still restoring function and aesthetics. Because minimally invasive dental procedures require less time and are easier to maintain, this type of dentistry has rapidly gained popularity in recent years. But what are the benefits of MID? It’s important to understand that these procedures require a few initial tests to determine if a patient has healthy bacteria in their saliva or whether they’re experiencing tooth decay or caries.

The first benefit of minimally invasive dentistry is that it preserves more of the original tissue, leaving the tooth structure intact. Compared to the traditional amalgam filling, a preventive resin restoration takes less healthy tooth tissue, which means less need for repairs later. Another benefit of a minimally invasive treatment is that it’s less likely to damage surrounding healthy teeth. This type of treatment also reduces the risk of caries in pits and fissures.

3D printing

Formlabs, a 3D printing company, has entered the dental market in 2016. The previous competitor 3D printers were too expensive for most practices, but the Form 2 printer changed all of that. Its Form 3B printer offers validated print settings and industry-specific support. Its Form 2 printer provides highly accurate dental-grade 3D printing. It also offers an extensive library of dental materials.

The technology’s versatility makes it possible to make products that fit the individual patient’s mouth and face. It also offers the potential to create more accurate prosthetics, reducing patient wait times. In addition to the potential for fewer visits, 3D printing can produce a wide range of dental products on one machine, enabling a dentist to produce an appliance while the patient is still in the dental chair.

Augmented reality

VR and Augmented Reality are already used in a number of fields, from medical education to surgery. With their wide range of applications, AR can also be used in dentistry. Dental students, for example, can practice the skills they are learning in a virtual environment and sneak a peek behind the scenes. Whether they’re working on their final project or practicing on a real patient, VR can help students practice their skills in an unreal environment.

First, augmented reality software allows dentists to create 3D images of patients’ mouths. They then use this information to create an AR overlay. The software automatically locks onto the patient’s mouth, allowing the dentist to see which areas will need changes and which ones will remain unchanged. Patients can then tweak their options in real time to see how their teeth look before they have them completed. The resulting model is then sent to a manufacturer for production.

AI

AI will change the way dentists practice. It can be trained to read dental and medical images and suggest the most likely diagnosis based on existing patient databases. Dental practitioners will no longer have to spend hours analyzing data or manually diagnosing patients. In addition to assisting dentists, AI will also allow them to optimize scheduling and predict the length of procedures. The benefits of AI in dentistry are numerous. Read on to find out how AI is already changing the way dentists practice.

Today, dentists are not aware of the potential benefits of AI. AI can help dentists diagnose dental issues, identify best practices, manage risk, and handle finance and patient scheduling. But the potential for AI is vast. The future of dentistry is bright, but only if dentists are smart about how to utilize it. Otherwise, dentistry will wait until the other shoe drops. AI is a powerful tool, and its use will change the field forever.