As we look forward hopefully to much better times ahead, it’s worth remembering that advances in dental technology have been moving on at pace in recent years, with digital technology now at the forefront of safer, faster and more effective dental treatment.
For patients, one of the most notable benefits of the latest digital technology has been the introduction of intraoral scanners, especially when it comes to the taking of digital impressions. A dental impression provides the basis for most restorative treatments and is used to obtain an accurate representation of the teeth and mouth for the fabrication of appliances such as crowns and bridges, dentures and sports guards, but until now this was never the most pleasant of procedures.
Traditionally, taking a dental impression involved biting down on a putty-like material in the mouth which could be a messy, uncomfortable experience and even cause some patients to gag, not to mention the time taken for the procedure and then waiting to make sure the impression was suitable. Patients didn’t necessarily complain about analogue impressions, it was simply that most people did not know there was a far better alternative.
Speed, safety and accuracy
At Ringley Park, Reigate, we aim to offer our patients the best treatment possible and when it comes to digital impressions we’ve invested in the latest in intraoral scanning technology.
A digital impression is more comfortable and it’s much faster, with each scan taking just a few minutes, meaning less time is spent in the dentist’s chair, and there’s no mess or stress involved.
We can give our patients a clear 3D view of their mouth (maybe for the first time!) and show the proposed treatment options, giving an opportunity to ask questions and allay any fears. All digital impressions are securely stored electronically within a patient’s notes creating more efficient record-keeping and, better still, a paper-free environment.
The latest intraoral scanners are extremely accurate, meaning less chance that your final restoration either won’t fit or will need any adjustments, reducing the need for additional trips to the practice. Infection control is also of course of prime importance and our scanners come with sleeves that can be easily cleaned and disinfected, or we can use disposable sleeves which are thrown away after each use.
Digital is the way ahead
Digital impressions are suitable for a whole array of treatments and prosthetic restorations including the creation of inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges and partial dentures as well as being the basis for CEREC® all-ceramic dental restorations that can be completed in just one surgery appointment.
Digital impressions can also be used for planning and visualising ways of straightening teeth in orthodontic treatment, especially the provision of ‘invisible’ clear aligners such as Invisalign® and other custom-made devices. Plus, they are an integral part of implant dentistry to facilitate treatment planning and guided surgery to ensure a safe and predictable outcome.
Digital dental technology is revolutionising dental treatment and that’s why Ringley Park Dental Practice is at the forefront of this new way of working, enabling us to offer our patients the very best of safe, comfortable and aesthetic treatment outcomes.
If you would like to book an appointment or you have any questions about your treatment with us, you can choose a convenient time online, or call us today on 01737 240123 and one of our friendly team will be only too happy to help.
