Did you know that dentistry is one of the oldest medical professions? Its origins date back to Ancient Egypt. The Ancient Egyptians were among the pioneers known for their early work in dental treatments and prosthetics [1]. Since then, dentistry has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from primitive and simple methods to highly advanced applications that include modern, painless treatment techniques, preventive oral health care, and advanced diagnostic methods. In this article, we will detail some of the new dental technologies that can help maintain your oral health.
Artificial intelligence has recently started to play a crucial role in dentistry, especially in detecting cavities and periodontal diseases in X-ray images with high precision. Additionally, a robotic dental device called Yomi has received FDA 510(k) approval for use in full-arch implant treatments. This development paves the way for minimally invasive procedures to be performed by robots in the future [2].
Laser technology has become an indispensable part of modern dentistry, and its importance is expected to grow even more in the future. Used effectively in various procedures such as teeth whitening, cavity removal, gum reshaping, and root canal treatments, laser technology makes treatments more efficient and patient-friendly. Compared to traditional methods, this technology is significantly less invasive and minimizes side effects such as bleeding, pain, and swelling.
With lasers, teeth whitening procedures can be completed in a shorter time, and infected tissues can be effectively cleaned during root canal treatments. Additionally, the precision offered by lasers enables dentists to perform procedures such as gum contouring and cavity removal with greater ease and improved patient comfort. As laser technology becomes more widespread, healing times in dental treatments are significantly reduced, increasing patient satisfaction [3]. The advancement of technology continues to provide a better treatment experience for both dentists and patients.
Computer-aided imaging, design, and manufacturing have revolutionized dental treatments in many ways. With this technology, intraoral scanners can eliminate the discomfort of traditional impression-taking methods. Furthermore, dental restorations and surgical guides can be designed and easily manufactured in laboratories. This innovation benefits both dentists and dental labs, significantly enhancing patient satisfaction.
3D printing technology has created a revolution in dentistry with its exciting possibilities. This technology allows for the rapid, simple, and reliable production of dental restorations, standing out in terms of precision, cost-efficiency, and patient satisfaction. With 3D printers, crowns, bridges, aligners, and even surgical guides can be produced directly in dental clinics, ensuring a seamless process.
In cases where traditional laboratory procedures may take a long time, 3D printing shortens the process and improves patient experience. Thanks to this technology, dentists can offer personalized treatment plans, achieving both aesthetic and functional success [4].
One of the common challenges in dental treatments is time loss and multiple appointments. With technological advancements, these issues are being eliminated. Traditionally, completing a crown required multiple visits, but now, with computer-aided scanning, design, and manufacturing technologies, the process can be completed in a single visit. This innovation helps both dentists and patients save time, making the treatment process much more convenient.
Invisible braces are among the most remarkable innovations in dentistry. The visibility and discomfort of traditional metal braces have been completely eliminated with these clear and elegant alternatives. Thanks to 3D printing technology, the precise designs of invisible braces have made teeth alignment faster and more effective [5].
These treatments offer significant advantages both aesthetically and functionally. While providing a more comfortable experience during the treatment process, they also boost self-confidence in social settings. Recent advancements in this technology help patients achieve their desired smiles while addressing aesthetic concerns.
Since smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives, why shouldn’t toothbrushes evolve as well? Smart toothbrushes introduce a whole new dimension to oral health. These technological wonders not only help you brush your teeth but also ensure you do it in the most accurate and effective way possible.
Some models detect excessive pressure while brushing and alert you accordingly. Additionally, they analyze your brushing duration and movements to provide feedback. With these devices, you can clean your teeth more effectively and prevent gum problems.
Smart toothbrushes help maintain a beautiful smile and establish good brushing habits by guiding you to brush your teeth correctly.
Regenerative dentistry is considered one of the most revolutionary advancements in the field today. This concept is based on developing materials that stimulate stem cells to grow dental tissue. As a result, impressive outcomes such as enamel regeneration, dentin reconstruction, and even gum tissue regeneration can be achieved.
Particularly, repairing tissue loss caused by cavities and developing less invasive alternatives to root canal treatments are among the potential applications of this technology. Researchers continue to make progress in this field, predicting that regenerative approaches will transform dentistry.
Due to the potential benefits it offers to patients, regenerative dentistry is recognized as a significant step not only in preserving oral health but also in making treatment processes shorter and more patient-friendly [6].
Thank you for taking the time to read! 😊
[1] Forshaw, Roger. (2009). The practice of dentistry in ancient Egypt. British dental journal. 206. 481-6. 10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.355.
[2] Neocis Inc. “Neocis Announces New FDA 510(k) Clearance Enabling the Yomi® Dental Robotic System to Assist with Full Arch Implant Treatment.” GlobeNewswire, 28 Temmuz 2020, www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/07/28/2068936/0/en/Neocis-Announces-New-FDA-510-k-Clearance-Enabling-the-Yomi-Dental-Robotic-System-to-Assist-with-Full-Arch-Implant-Treatment.html.
[3] Dr. David Rodrick, “The Consumer’s Guide To Laser Dentistry”, drrodrickdds, www.www.drrodrickdds.com/knowledge/laser-dentistry/, Erişim tarihi: 10 Ocak 2025.
[4] Jambhule, Shruti & Palandurkar, Mona & Shewale, Akhilesh. (2022). 3D PRINTING IN DENTISTRY. International Journal of Advanced Research. 10. 742-750. 10.21474/IJAR01/14443.
[5] Dr. A. Vinita Mary, M.D.S; Dr. Kesavan R, M.D.S; Dr. Kreethika S; Dr. Krithika L; Dr. Lakshmi Priya S . (Volume. 5 Issue. 10, October - 2020) “Invisible Aligners- Is it the future of Orthodontics" International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology (IJISRT), ISSN - 2456-2165 , PP :- 383-386.
[6] Birjandi, A. A., Neves, V. C., & Sharpe, P. (2021). Advances in Regenerative Dentistry; Building with Biology. Regenerative Medicine, 16(4), 343–345.
