Technology has always been a significant part of dental care. It has allowed dental providers to do more and to do it efficiently. And with the constant advancement of technology, this is only becoming truer.
As a result, dental practices are evolving. They’re becoming more technologically inclined, benefiting dental providers and patients. So, what are some ways technology is changing dental practice? Here are a few ones you should know about.
Online Booking
One of the most convenient modern dental practices is online booking. It allows patients to book appointments without calling the office during specific business hours. Especially in today’s fast-paced society, this is a game-changer.
Online booking is great for busy people who have trouble finding time to schedule an appointment during regular office hours. Many dental offices offer online booking as an option on their websites.
It also allows dental practices to keep track of their appointments better. Now, software and systems automatically send appointment reminders to patients a day or two before their scheduled time. It helps reduce the number of no-shows, which can be costly for practices.
With the help of technology, online booking is making the scheduling process much easier for everyone. Thus, it’s one of the best ways technology changes dental practice.
Virtual Consultations
Another modern dental practice that is becoming more popular is virtual consultations. It involves having a consultation with your dental specialist over a video call rather than in person. This practice has become more prevalent during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virtual consultations allow patients to discuss their dental needs with a dentist via video chat. It is excellent for patients who live far away from a dental clinic or have difficulty leaving their homes. It is a great way to start a treatment plan without traveling to the dentist’s office.
However, not all dental procedures can be done virtually. In some cases, a physical examination is necessary to determine the best course of treatment. Nevertheless, virtual consultations are becoming more common in dental care. They will likely continue to be used even after the pandemic ends.
Digital X-Rays
Gone are the days of waiting for film to develop. Now, digital x-rays are becoming the norm in dental practices. This technology allows dental providers to see images of patients’ teeth almost instantly.
The process is also much easier on patients as it emits up to 90% less radiation than traditional x-rays. Digital x-rays are also more environmentally friendly as they don’t require the use of chemicals to develop.
Overall, digital x-rays are a great way that technology is changing dental practice for the better. They’re safer and more efficient, which is good news for patients and dental providers.
3D Printed Prosthetics
Another modern dental care practice that is becoming more common is 3D-printed prosthetics. 3D printing technology has come a long way in recent years and is now used to create custom dental prosthetics.
These prosthetics come from lightweight materials that are comfortable to wear and look natural. Additionally, it is an excellent option for patients with difficulty finding dentures that fit correctly.
With the help of technology, 3D-printed prosthetics are changing how people think about dentures. They’re more comfortable and realistic-looking than ever before.
Patient Reviews
In the past, patients used to rely on their gut feeling when choosing a dental provider. Now, they can read reviews from other patients before making a decision.
Patient reviews are readily available online and can be very helpful when choosing a dental provider. These reviews give patients an idea of what to expect from a particular dental practice. They also provide insight into a practice’s quality of care and customer service.
Online reviews are also a great way to compare different dentists side-by-side. Many dental offices now include patient reviews on their websites and third-party review sites such as Google and Yelp. This way, finding a reliable dentist is much easier than it used to be. And when you’re confident with your decision, you’re more likely to stick with that dental office long-term.
Technology has changed the way dental practices operate in several ways. From online booking to patient reviews, patients now have more information available to them than ever before. These modern practices in dental care are becoming more common and making it easier for patients to get the care they need. With the above in mind, it’s clear why dental care is changing for the better. So, if you want to work on your oral health, use the services of a modern dental clinic. It’s worth it.
