Dr. Brunacini on Digital Dentistry
One of the most exciting and useful advancements in dentistry in recent years has been the incorporation of digital tools. Digital Dentistry is an integral part of our practice at Falmouth Dental Arts. Perhaps you read about Dr. Brunacini’s commitment to Digital Dentistry in his bio and have been curious to learn more. We decided to ask Dr. Brunacini about this innovative component of our care. Here’s what he had to say:
1. What is Digital Dentistry?
Dr. Brunacini: Digital dentistry has permeated many aspects of dentistry. For example, our patient’s dental and health information is all done digitally through our dental software. No need for paper charts! X-rays are another way that digital dentistry has changed how we do things. Digital x-rays have many advantages: convenience, drastically reduced radiation exposure, and increased diagnostic capabilities. We even have x-rays that can be seen in 3 dimensions, which provides so much more information for the team and patient. It’s also really cool! Lastly, digital impressions can now be used to fabricate crowns and other lab-processed dental prostheses. It’s all very fascinating!
2. How does FDA incorporate Digital Dentistry into its practice?
Dr. Brunacini: We have been using computer-based patient record management software for years. It allows us to better communicate with the patients directly as well as with their dental insurance companies to provide a better overall experience. We also utilize intraoral cameras (camera this fit inside the mouth) to be able to show patients exactly what we see in their mouths. We can use these digital images to help us make a treatment plan and communicate that plan easily to the patient. Being able to plan the end result for a patient prior to making irreversible changes to a their mouth helps us assure long term success. It becomes a very powerful motivator and education tool.
We are working towards implementing digital impressions for crown fabrication, but are still in the learning phase of it. We are continually developing new skills and working to implement new technologies in our practice to give our patients the best care possible.
3. What’s in store for the future of Digital Dentistry?
Dr. Brunacini: Digital Dentistry will continue to simplify and streamline the workflow. We are already seeing how the intraoral digital scanners (which create 3-D images of teeth) are getting faster and smaller so we can use them more universally. I also see potential in 3-D printing of dental prostheses for patients, which will assure a more precise fit and quicker turnaround times. It’s an exciting time and there are sure to be even more advancements in the future!
Thank you, Dr. Brunacini! Come in and experience all of our digital equipment at your next appointment! Schedule one today by calling us at 207.781.5900.
*Image courtesy of www.dentalassets.com