Dental professionals are busy, highly skilled, and always in demand. While all of these are to be expected, it’s also true that being able to find time in a busy schedule to reflect on the patient experience matters. With new dental materials being brought to the market at a speed that has surprised many specialists, the time is now for a concise and precise overview.
This quick guide is designed to bring dental professionals up to speed as well as to show prospective patients their options.
The Rise Of Materials & Technology
There has been a real surge in demand for biocompatible materials in recent years, with materials such as titanium, zirconia, and a range of specialist ceramics all coming to market. In addition, the industry has seen advances in digital imaging, 3D printing for rapid prototyping, CAD/CAM, and even the use of AI for better planning and organisation.
Put all of these advances together, and you are left with an industry that is providing a wide range of new benefits for patients from all walks of life.
Ceramics Are Enhancing Aesthetics
The use of custom ceramics that can be readily shaped and refined to match the geometry and natural appearance of the mouth is key. They are durable, designed with longevity in mind, and have experienced an increased focus on aesthetics in recent years. The idea is that the closer the ceramics are able to mimic the appearance of natural teeth, the more comfortable the patient will be with the final outcome. Exactly what is needed to boost patient satisfaction levels and grow a thriving practice.
Composites Are Matching Natural Colouring
Dentists who stock materials such as Venus Pearl composite with help from an established national supplier are able to boost patient outcomes. The way in which the final colour of such materials is designed to blend with and match the colour of natural teeth has been something of a revelation. By making sure that repairs can be made in a way that is subtle yet also effective and highly durable, dental professionals are able to boost the self-image of a wide variety of patients.
Titanium Implants Are Improving Longevity
No one wants to go to the dentist and have someone work on one of the most personal areas of their body, and that’s why longevity and durability are absolutely essential. Recent advances in both the lifetime and the ease of fitting titanium implants have caused a noticeable improvement in the patient experience. Implants that last for many years without a single issue, and that feel like natural teeth when biting, are proving to be a popular choice with many patients. Dentists who are able to offer them will be able to provide their patients with the peace of mind that makes all the difference to their quality of life.
Laser Dentistry Reduces Discomfort
Practices are increasingly turning to laser dentistry for certain treatments and procedures, allowing them to largely do away with the downsides of anaesthesia in many cases. The point here is that by being incredibly precise, laser treatments will virtually eliminate painful swelling and the disturbance of delicate nerves in the jaw area. Patients find appointments and procedures far less daunting and stressful, and they also recover and feel back to normal much sooner. The impact that this has on the patient experience is profound.
3D Printed Composites Reduce Treatment Times
Dental practices that are making the shift to 3D printing and using viable composites to fully tailor corrective elements in short order are making a real difference to patients. Appointments that are shorter, more efficient, and require fewer follow-ups have been the dream for decades.
3D printing is already showing great promise when it comes to making this happen, not least of all because it ensures every single inclusion is fully customised so that it meets the needs of the patient. Ideal when you want to be able to make sure that the fine details recorded in initial diagnostic images are reflected in the treatment that is applied.
Conclusion
The key thing here is that dentists need to have the time in their busy schedules to make sure they are always up to speed with the latest advances. Because we fully appreciate that this is something which is easier said than done in practice, asking for help from practice managers is our suggestion. Putting them in contact with an established national supplier will ensure that they are always made aware of the latest advances in dental materials and the associated treatment pathways.
