Are you a gadget guru? Do you have your finger on the pulse of the latest trends in fashion? Are you always the first to stream the newest cutting-edge TV series? If that sounds like you, you may be excited to know that the dental industry has its own share of trends, too. If you’re ready to wow your friends with some inside scoop on what the future holds for your teeth, keep reading!
3D Printing
While 3D chairside crowns are already being used in some dental practices, you can expect more providers offering this option in-house in the coming years, especially as this technology becomes more affordable. 3D printing allows your dentist to create your crown right there in the office while you wait, with no need for a return appointment or fitting delays transferring crowns back and forth from a lab.
Artificial Intelligence
AI is being used for everything from creating art to writing business emails, but it could soon be used to diagnose cavities and plan treatment options for dental patients. This could help dentists catch cavities sooner and even recognize patterns in your oral health that could lead to better preventive care.
Alternative Medicine
Recent studies have found success using virtual reality (VR) and music therapy to treat post-operative pain and anxiety in dental patients. As more research becomes available to support these techniques, you can expect to see dental practices adopting them to help make a more comfortable and pleasant experience for their patients.
Dental Implants and Orthodontics
Thanks to improved procedures in dental implants, experts expect an increase in orthodontic patients requesting them as part of their treatment plan. In fact, already more than 20 percent of patients who underwent orthodontic intervention have had dental implants placed within the last five years, and that number is only expected to increase.
Sustainable Materials
There is a greater push out there to “go green” both in patients’ daily lives and when it comes to dentistry. Whether it’s by using environmentally friendly materials like biodegradable toothbrushes, to reducing radiation and waste with digital X-rays, many dental practices are embracing the future and working to eliminate their carbon footprint.
Remember, no matter what the future holds for dentistry, you can rest assured that your dentist will make educated choices that will best protect you and your oral health, keeping your smile healthy and happy both today and well into the future.
About Dr. Hansen
Dr. JD Hansen strives to make each of his patients feel safe and comfortable no matter what type of care they are receiving. From general exams to veneers or dental implants, Dr. Hansen and the team at White Peak Dental are here to help with the latest in dental technology and good old-fashioned compassionate care.
To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us at 801-293-1234.