Many forms of dental surgery involve the dentist having an accurate three-dimensional image of the patient’s teeth and gums. In the past this involved making several dental moulds and using them in tandem with conventional x-ray. These would take several days to develop and cast and increased waiting times for all appointments and treatments for all patients.
Technological advances over the last twenty years are revolutionising the dental industry with one of the latest developments being the wider use of digital x-rays. Also known as digital radiography, digital x-rays involve the transfer of digital images on to a computer which allows the dentist instant access to a three-dimensional image of the patient’s teeth. This has removed the need for lengthy development, reducing appointment and waiting times. It also means these x-rays can be stored on the hard drive of the computer in the patient’s file for future reference.
This more immediate access has made a whole new set of procedures and technologies available to dentists. The new level of computerised accuracy has also had positive effects on all treatments. However, by far the most important benefit is the facilitation of crown and veneer production. Using the new digital images, the dentist is able to design and manufacture veneers in as little as six minutes, making same-day treatment possible. This process, which used to take up to three weeks, can now be accomplished in a lunch hour, and it has all been made possible by digital x-rays.
Digital x-rays are the cornerstone for a whole new form of dentistry utilising the astonishing accuracy and speed of computer-aided technology. This is the future of dentistry and it is happening today. To see what benefits this cutting edge technology could have for your teeth, make an appointment to see a City of Leeds dentist.
