Digital dentistry is revolutionising how clinicians are caring for patients. In particular, cutting-edge technologies have changed the game in dental implantology, allowing practitioners to deliver highly predictable solutions in ever-more complex situations.
To fully utilise the advantages available, it is essential that clinicians have sufficient experience and skill using analogue processes, as well as training specifically on the digital solutions they use. This is a topic that Dr Henry Cairns is passionate about, having developed his skills and experience in the area over the past few years. He reflects on the impact that digital solutions have had on his workflow and the patient care he can deliver:
“Ultimately, digital dentistry affords greater accuracy during treatment provision. The latest diagnostic imaging and planning software enable me to be more precise with my treatment planning and execution. These technologies also make it possible to create smile simulations that help patients understand the estimated final outcome, which is beneficial for treatment acceptance and quality of consent. In addition, I can review the 3D model between appointments to accurately assess the likely success of different approaches, even without the patient being in the chair.”
As an advocate for guided surgery, Henry goes on to discuss the potential benefits of this clinical approach:
“Guided surgery is another major reason why digital dentistry is so useful within the implant field. I utilise a guided approach as often as possible as it increases the accuracy and efficiency of treatment I provide. Patients appreciate having to spend less time in the chair. They also respond favourably to smile simulations made possible with digital planning software and 3D modelling. Not only do they better understand what to expect from treatment, but they also have more realistic expectations as they can relate to the images of their own mouths more easily than generic models. This boosts treatment acceptance too.
“Guided implantology also delivers enhanced clinical outcomes, increasing the chance that implants are placed exactly as planned, significantly reducing the margin for error. This approach facilitates prosthetically-driven treatment. As such, implants can be confidently restored because the implant position is planned according to the ideal restorative situation. The clinical workflow is more straightforward and the result more predictable. When approaching full arch cases, these benefits are even more pronounced, as accurate implant positioning is critical when working with reduced bone volume and other potential defects.
“When it comes to referrals, the shorter treatment times and fewer appointments afforded by a fully digital workflow are advantageous for the dentists I work with and their patients. The digital workflow enables easy communication with the referring dentist, meaning we can discuss cases and share ideas without any physical limitations. It also improves collaboration and ensures that they remain involved in their patient’s care.”
Despite the advantages, barriers to digital remain for some clinicians. Henry considers what some of these might be for colleagues:
“I would always encourage clinicians to try and use digital dentistry as much as they can. Outcomes and treatment processes will improve over time – just as with any new skill.
“However, many clinicians don’t use fully digital workflows, especially guided surgery, because they feel that they lose the control they have with freehand surgery. It also involves a fairly steep learning curve, which some clinicians may not have the time, desire or funds to invest into this field of their work. For those who don’t do a lot of implants, it may simply not be worth it for them.”
For any dentists who are not offering digital implant workflows or who are currently developing their skills and technologies, referring patients is an excellent way of ensuring exceptional patient care. Henry accepts referrals for a wide range of implant services from Torwood Dental Practice, Inverness, as well as M&S Dental Care, Fort William, part of the Clyde Munro Dental Group in Scotland. Here, he has access to a selection of industry-leading digital technologies, which help him deliver fast, highly efficient and predictable treatment solutions to various patients. He adds:
“Having state-of-the-art technologies in-house is integral to achieving the high clinical standards I strive for every single day. With Clyde Munro, I have the equipment and clinical support I need to always put patients first. The group has been excellent at embracing digital dentistry, providing all the tools I need, investing substantially in equipment and even providing related courses at their dedicated Advanced Dentistry & Clinical Skills Centre.”
To ensure your patients are receiving the best possible implant treatment, make use of the digital workflows available through Henry Cairns and Clyde Munro. Contact the team to find out more today.
Contact henry Cairns at Torwood Dental Practice, inverness by emailing henry.cairns@clydemunrodental.com or calling 01463 712772
