Digital dentistry, AI smile design, stem cells that rebuild teeth, robotic root canals, and laser technology over drills… it may sound like science fiction, but these technologies are already on our doorstep.
“We are well and truly at the forefront of digital dentistry technology,” says Dr. Gamer Verdian from Dental Lounge Sydney. “It’s brilliant news for patients because it will improve accessibility while emphasising painless procedures and advanced prevention.”
Here, we look at the exciting dental advancements that make a trip to the tooth doctor all the more pain-free, and explain why we will have wait a little longer for some.
Digital dentistry – lasers vs. drills
While the thought of a soundless laser doing the same job as a drill is hugely anxiety-reducing, we’re not quite there, yet.
“I was an early adopter of laser technology,” says Dr. Gamer. “The unfortunate truth is that they just aren’t as good as the drills. The accuracy and speed is not at an equal level. We are using more and more electric drills that have a much better sound than the turbine drills but they still sound like a drill nonetheless.”
AI Smiles
Dr. Gamer was the first in Australia to offer 3D face scanning that tailor-designs veneers to complement your overall features.
“This cutting edge digital dentistry planning means we are able to create veneers with little or no preparation to the tooth at all. Such advances in artificial intelligence have already revolutionised smile design.”
Stem cells
Could stem cells be used to regrow teeth? It seems the science is almost there.
“The current thinking is that we will be able to create new teeth with controlled growth,” explains Dr. Gamer. “We hope to then place these new teeth in a missing tooth site, or to replace a severely damaged tooth. This would eliminate the need for dental implants in most patients. Further, if a tooth has decayed enough to need a root canal therapy, we would just re-grow a new tooth and place it in the mouth.”
Ultrasounds vs. X-rays
There are scanning options out there, but we still have to bide our time before we can bid goodbye to oral x-rays.
“We do have some great technology that can scan teeth without radiation and allow us to see if they have cavities or not,” reveals Dr. Gamer. “However, there’s no current technology that I am aware of that can see through bone to replace dental X-rays. Other than looking at teeth, we do need to look at the bones and other surrounding anatomy to provide dental care.”
Microscopic dentistry
Microscope-enhanced dentistry, or Microdentistry, refers to the use of high-powered microscopes during dental procedures. It allows for a level of precision and accuracy that is significantly greater than traditional methods.
“This approach offers numerous advantages that contribute to the overall quality and outcome of dental treatments,” explains Dr. Gamer. “It’s more in line with medical specialties like neurosurgery.
“Firstly, the enhanced magnification provided by the microscope allows for a highly detailed visualisation of the dental structure. This detailed view enables us to detect early-stage decay, tiny fractures, or minute irregularities that might not be visible to the naked eye or even with standard dental loupes.
“Secondly, in restorative and endodontic procedures, such as root canals or fillings, the microscope allows for precision work that preserves as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. This high level of precision can contribute to better long-term outcomes and less post-procedure discomfort for patients.”
Genetic dentistry
Dr. Gamer predicts that, beyond microscopic dentistry, genetics will be the next big thing. “With access to genome data we can begin to pinpoint an individual’s susceptibility to various oral disease and choose the best treatment option for their particular physiology. We may even be able to pinpoint the specific bacteria causing the problem and tailor the treatment to suit.”
AI home care
At-home products will also be a key player in early detection, says Dr. Gamer.
“Toothbrushes may have a pH sensor to detect acidic saliva, which is a risk factor in tooth decay and gum disease,” he notes. “One day they might even be able to detect a change in breath chemicals, which can be a warning sign of serious diseases such as diabetes.”
Fillings may even soon be a thing of the past! “Harvard and the University of Nottingham are working on a joint project to produce a synthetic biomaterial that allows the cavity to heal itself,” explains Dr. Gamer.
Prevention is better than cure
We all know this to be true.
“It’s in the patient’s hands,” says Dr. Gamer. “Brushing for at least two minutes twice a day and drinking water, especially fluoridated water. Fluoride helps to mineralise and regenerate tooth structures and just the sheer physical motion of drinking also helps to flush away food and bacteria that is stuck on teeth.” Dr. Gamer also suggests “avoiding sugary drinks, carbonated water, lollies and acidic foods, such as lemon and vinegar.”
And he’s got a dire warning for anyone experimenting with e-cigarettes and vapes. “People should know that they have been linked to higher tooth decay and cavities.”
