What Is Digital Dentistry?
Digital dentistry includes the integration of intraoral scanners, computer-aided design and manufacturing systems, three-dimensional imaging and digital planning software into dental workflows.
These technologies are tools that complement clinical assessment and the dentist’s professional judgement.
Digital Scanning / Digital Impressions
Intraoral scanners can help create three-dimensional digital records of the teeth and surrounding tissues. In some treatments, they may be used as an alternative to conventional impression techniques.
Whether a digital impression is suitable depends on the type of restoration or treatment planned.
Digital Planning
Digital records may be used for measurement and planning in implant, orthodontic, smile-design and prosthetic treatments.
Digital simulations are planning tools and should not be considered an exact guarantee of the treatment outcome.
CAD/CAM
CAD/CAM refers to computer-aided design and manufacturing systems. In suitable cases, it may be used in the design and production of crowns, bridges, inlays/onlays or provisional restorations.
The production method and material selection vary according to the planned restoration.
3D Digital Technologies
Three-dimensional imaging and printing systems may be used in selected cases to produce surgical guides, models, provisional restorations or other auxiliary devices.
The technology required is determined according to the treatment plan.
Treatments in Which Digital Dentistry May Be Used
Digital methods may be used across different areas of treatment.
- Implant planning
- Smile design
- Clear aligner and orthodontic planning
- Crowns, bridges and selected prosthetic restorations
- Inlays/onlays and selected restorative procedures
Digital Treatment Workflow
The number of digital recording, planning and production stages varies according to the treatment. Not every procedure should be expected to be completed in a single visit.
Clinical requirements are assessed independently of the speed of digital production.