Digital Dentistry: How Technology Is Transforming Dental Care

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Digital dentistry is revolutionizing the world of dentistry.

And as with any innovation, you can either choose to embrace it or choose to ignore it. 

While you may feel skeptical about the “new” ways, we’re here to tell you that modern dentistry technology has the power to transform your workflow for the better.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the effects of digital dentistry on modern dental practices. In as little as 5 minutes, you’ll be well-versed in all things innovation:

  • Definitions & examples
  • Types of digital dentistry
  • Traditional vs. modern equipment
  • Benefits of adopting modern dentistry technology
  • How to become an industry innovator

Ready? Let’s get started!

What Is Digital Dentistry?

Digital dentistry is a term used to describe procedures and processes in the dental industry that utilize computer-based technology, rather than traditional tools.

When utilized correctly, advanced dental technology allows dentists to optimize their workflow, become more efficient, improve patient satisfaction, and even increase dental revenue.

Sounds great, right?

How Is Digital Dentistry Different than Traditional Dentistry? 6 Impacts

First, let’s define what we mean by “traditional dentistry.” 

At Performance Dental Institute, we define traditional dentistry as dental processes and technologies from the late 20th to early 21st century that treat dental issues using manual, or outdated tech. 

Here are some examples:

  • Creating molds of a patient’s teeth using alginate or dental wax
  • Using only manual tools during procedures
  • Handcrafted restorations (i.e., crowns, bridges, dentures, etc)
Dental assistant using dental dentistry with a patient.

With modern dentistry, you use cutting-edge technology that allows you to accomplish all of the above in half the time–and sometimes even instantly!

Let’s check out some of the primary benefits of switching from traditional to modern technologies.

6 Benefits of Digital Dentistry Courses

Adopting modern dentistry techniques will not only make you happier when you get back more time in your workday–it’ll also make your patients happier!

Here are 6 amazing reasons your dental practice can benefit from digital dentistry:

  1. Improves Workflow Efficiency 
  2. Increases Precision & Accuracy
  3. Improves Patient Satisfaction
  4. Allows You to Sell Higher-Priced Services
  5. Skyrocket Your Dental Revenue
  6. Boosts Dentists’ Authority

Want to experience ALL of these benefits? 

In the next section, we’ll explain how you can make the switch and become an industry innovator with modern technology.

Types of Digital Dentistry: Equipment & Procedures

To help you understand the intricacies of this modern movement, we’ve broken down some examples of the types of digital dentistry technology.

Digital Impressions (Intraoral scanner)

Say goodbye to bulky moldings that feel and taste horrible inside your patients’ mouths. Intraoral scanners allow you to take quick, accurate imaging of your patient’s mouth in real-time. 

Intraoral scanners are handheld devices that seamlessly fit into your patient’s mouth and take images in real-time. 

Not only are these images quicker and more accurate than traditional molds, they are much more comfortable for the patient.

This technology has revolutionized the dental industry, cutting back on time spent waiting around for the dental lab, precision errors, and subjecting your patients to the taste of dental wax.

Dentist using Intraoral scanner for digital dentistry.

Dental Photography & Design

Showing your patients the potential of their smile is a sure way to sell high-priced procedures and improve patient satisfaction.

With modern imaging and design technology, it’s now more possible than ever!

Dental Photography for digital dentistry

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Thanks to cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), dentists can generate 3D images of their patient’s oral and maxillofacial structures, capturing high resolutions of…

  • Teeth
  • Bones
  • Nerves
  • Soft tissues

CBCT helps doctors give a precise diagnosis and create a detailed treatment plan for the patient. The 3D images allow patients to visualize their anatomy and the potential outcome, fostering easy communication and trust between the patient and dentist.

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography used for digital dentistry

Professional Imaging

Other imaging, such as using DSLR cameras, is a great way to document your patients’ new smiles and use them as social proof to help you book your next patient.

High-resolution imaging also allows you to precise details that can be used for diagnosis and treatment planning 

Augmented Reality

We’ve all heard of augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR), but have you heard of it being used in the dental industry?

AR is becoming increasingly popular among innovative doctors. While it can be used in a variety of ways, here are two of the most popular uses within dental practices:

  • Benefit to Patients: Visualize the smile they could have by rendering a 3D overlay of a new smile. This gives the patient a better understanding of their dental investment and empowers them to become confident in the decision-making process.
  • Benefit to Doctors: Practice new procedures and new technology in a virtual environment, fine-tuning your skills in detailed simulations.

Laser Dentistry

Some dentists use lasers for various dental procedures such as gum contouring, cavity preparation, and soft tissue surgeries.

Laser technology offers precise control, minimizes bleeding, and promotes faster healing.

3D Printing

Dentists worldwide have started to use 3D printing to create everything from crowns to dentures for their patients to ensure the best fit possible. 

3D printing is quick, more accurate than traditional manufacturing, and creates a more personalized experience and fit for the patient.

One of the most popular uses for 3D printing is to create comfortable and durable dentures that patients will love.

3d Printing teeth as a part of digital dentistry

How to Implement the Latest Dental Technology into Your Practice

Implementing modern dental technology and procedures into your practice can seem intimidating–especially if you’re used to running your practice with traditional tech. 


Trust us when we say that making the switch can be simple! Plus, it’ll save you time and money in the long run.

All you need is some quick education–and no, that doesn’t mean going back to school.

Your state’s Board of Dentistry already requires that you receive so many Continuing Education (CE) credits a year to keep your license, so why not invest in CE courses that train you on cutting-edge technology?

Innovative CE Courses that focus on teaching you how to use modern technology are the best investment you can make for your practice. Many are only 1-day in length, so you don’t have to step away from your practice for long!

And the best part?

You can begin implementing your new technology and skills right away, immediately optimizing your workflow.

Stay Ahead of the Curve With Hands-On Digital Dentistry Instruction

At Performance Dental Institute, we believe in dental innovation.

That’s why we offer modern CE courses that teach dentists how to embrace the latest dental technology they need to elevate their practice and stay ahead of the curve. 

Browse our 1-day and 2-day comprehensive courses to find the best one for you!

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