It’s key to stay ahead of the curve and investigate what new technology is out there, as each new innovation brings with it greater patient satisfaction and a more efficient workflow.
There are also different types of careers in medicine, and dentistry is constantly evolving.
That means that constant reevaluation of the sorts of tools you’re using in your practice is essential.
If your practice is due for an upgrade but you’re unsure where to start, fear not! In this short article, you’ll learn about four essential tools you should have in your arsenal as a modern dentist.
A High-Quality Flowable Composite
While this article will talk about some seriously high-tech gear, it’s key to start with the basics.
A high-quality composite is indispensable for any dentist, and these products have come a long way in the last ten years. While in the past you needed to carefully blend multiple shades, one-shade flowable composite now exists, enabling the dentist to match any shade with ease and speed up workflow for a quicker procedure and a happier patient.
Having an easy-to-handle composite is at the core of providing a professional finish, so choose carefully!
Digital Intraoral Scanners
For when you’re managing complex cases or working with orthodontists to help a patient who needs realignment, digital intraoral scanners can prove to be invaluable.
Scanners like the iTero system allow the dentist to quickly and painlessly scan the entirety of the patient’s dental arches without the need to use ionizing radiation (as traditional X-rays do). They provide highly detailed images of the teeth, which can then be reconstructed into 3D models for use later in planning.
CBCT Scanners
Cone Beam CT scanners are becoming more and more common in dental studios, and with good reason. At a fraction of the radiation dose that medical-grade CT scanners use, CBCT models can produce crisp, accurate images of the entire jaw. Some advanced units have a field of view that can go right up past the brow ridge for a fully comprehensive image of what is virtually the whole skull.
They are particularly useful for dentists working alongside orthognathic surgeons, as this collaboration involves work on both the teeth and jaws.
Electric Handpiece
The handpiece is a dentist’s bread and butter. Most of the original designs used air to drive the drill, but electric models offer much better control and a more consistent operating experience.
As a dentist’s repertoire increases, there often becomes an even greater emphasis on accuracy. In these instances, the margin for error is very small, so it’s essential to have a handpiece that becomes an extension of your abilities and doesn’t slow you down and introduce error.
If you haven’t already, definitely trial an electric model. You’ll be sure to notice the difference!
Wrapping Up
There are plenty of other important tools to consider, of course, but if you’re looking for a place to start, the above recommendations will set a strong foundation. These four tools have the potential to revolutionize your practice, so do some research and test them out for yourself!
